What is Tonsillectomy?

The process of removing the tonsils by surgical intervention is called tonsil surgery. The medical name for this procedure is tonsillectomy. Inflammation of the tonsils is called tonsillitis. The name given to the two oval-shaped organs located at the back of the throat is the tonsil. These are located on each side of the throat.

The tonsils are part of the immune system. However, it serves as the body’s first line of defense against bacteria and viruses entering the mouth. The function of the tonsils within the immune system decreases after puberty. That is why cases of tonsillitis are rarer in adults.

A widely used practice in the treatment process of frequently recurrent tonsillitis is tonsil surgery, that is, tonsillectomy. In addition, tonsil structures that can cause breathing disorders that occur during sleep can be surgically removed.

How is Tonsillectomy Performed?

Tonsil surgery is applied quite easily in many cases. However, it is a surgery that does not require a long stay in the hospital. However, in cases where complications occur, prolonged hospitalization may be required.

Tonsil surgery is commonly performed under general anesthesia. For this reason, during the operation, the individual is not aware of the procedure or does not feel pain.

The doctor makes use of a special surgical instrument that uses heat or high-energy sound waves to remove tissues and stop bleeding.

Home Care After Tonsillectomy

Complications are rarely observed after tonsil surgery. Between them becomes from one to two weeks of moderate pain in the throat, a feeling that something is stuck in the throat. It can also include pain in the ears, neck or jaw and a state of anxiety, especially in children. After the operation, it is possible to take various steps with the advice of a doctor to ensure a healthy healing process.

Pain medications should be used by the individual as prescribed by the physician. It should take at the right time and in the appropriate dose. It is important to drink plenty of fluids after surgery. This prevents fluid loss. Consuming light foods that are easy to swallow, such as applesauce or broth, prevents damage to the operation area. If the individual can tolerate foods such as ice cream and custard, their consumption will be better.

In the period after tonsil surgery, foods that are easy to chew and swallow should be eaten in the diet. You should not consume acidic, spicy foods for a while longer, which can cause pain or bleeding. Bed rest may be recommended for a few days after tonsil surgery.

The individual should return to work or school when he or she returns to a normal diet according to the doctor’s advice, sleeps normally during the night, and does not need painkillers. The individual should talk to the doctor about activities they should avoid.