Tonsillectomy
What is a tonsillectomy?
Tonsils are the lumps of tissue at the back of your throat that are part of the body's immune system. A tonsillectomy is surgery to remove the tonsils. It’s a common procedure among children who have recurrent bouts of infected and swollen tonsils (tonsillitis).
Why have this procedure?
Removing the tonsils is often recommended for children and adults who have had tonsillitis several times a year. Taking them out is considered safe because the body has many other ways to fight infection. Tonsillectomy is also performed to treat other conditions in adults and children including sleep and swallowing problems.
What is involved in this procedure?
The tonsils are removed through the mouth while your child is asleep under a general anaesthetic. It may be combined with surgery to remove the adenoids (adenoidectomy).
There are many different minimally invasive techniques ENT surgeons use to remove the tonsils. Your ENT surgeon will use the most appropriate method for your child. Heat is used to stop the bleeding so there is no need for sutures (stitches) and no need to remove anything later. Your child will wake up in recovery where you will be able to be there for them.
What should I expect after surgery?
It usually takes around two weeks to recovery from tonsillectomy. It’s important to rest and drink plenty of fluids. Your ENT surgeon will send you home with information about what foods you should eat and what to expect as the area heals. You can still get a sore throat after having your tonsils out but not having tonsils may reduce the severity of any infection.
Where will my child have surgery?
Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure that is usually booked for an overnight stay in hospital. If you have private health cover, you can choose to have the surgery at North Shore Private Hospital, Castlecrag Private Hospital or Northern Beaches Hospital. If you prefer to be seen as a public patient, surgery is offered at Northern Beaches Hospital or Westmead Children’s Hospital.