Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure for removing the tonsils. It is usually performed for recurrent throat infections, chronic tonsillitis, tonsillar abscesses, or breathing problems during sleep (obstructive apnea).
What are tonsils?
Tonsils are lymphoid tissues located at the back of the mouth, part of the immune system. While they help defend the body, they can sometimes become a source of recurrent infections.

When is tonsillectomy recommended?
Surgery is considered in cases of:
- Recurrent angina (acute tonsillitis) more than 3–5 times a year
- Chronic tonsillitis (persistent bad breath, sore throat, swollen neck lymph nodes)
- Tonsillar pus or abscess
- Difficulty swallowing
- Nighttime snoring or sleep apnea
- Abnormally large tonsils
- Suspected malignancy

How is the surgery performed?
- Done under general anesthesia; patient feels nothing
- Surgeon removes tonsils using specialized instruments, electrocautery, laser, or radio wave techniques
- Procedure usually lasts 30–45 minutes
- Patient can go home the same day or the next day

Recovery
- Full recovery in 7–14 days
- Mild throat pain, voice changes, or slight blood-tinged saliva may occur initially
- Eat cold and soft foods (ice cream, yogurt, soup)
- Avoid hot foods, carbonated drinks, acidic or irritating foods for the first week
- Avoid physical activity FAQ
1. Is tonsillectomy dangerous for children?
- No. It improves sleep quality, immune function, and overall health in children with recurrent throat infections
2. Does surgery weaken immunity?
- No. Other lymphoid organs compensate, overall immunity remains intact
3. Is the surgery painful?
- No pain during surgery; mild throat pain afterward is manageable with painkillers