Question 1

why does it take longer to recover from a tonsillectomy as an adult vs. as a child?

Accepted Answer

Tonsillectomy: Adults have had years of infections which can result in scar tissue.  Their tonsils are often much harder to remove (sometimes requiring more  trauma, cauterization, etc.) than kids.

Question 2

what is a tonsillectomy like?

Accepted Answer

Tonsilectomy ?: Tonsillectomy is surgical removal of tonsils from their place in the throat.

Question 3

what happens during a tonsillectomy?

Accepted Answer

Tonsillectomy basics: from Mayo Clinic:  http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tonsillectomy/basics/what-you-can-expect/prc-20019889

Question 4

how can i prepare for a tonsillectomy?

Accepted Answer

Tonsillectomy: Prepare by having realistic expectations about your recovery.  You well need to be out of work for 1-2 weeks minimum.  Sore throat will be expected.  Have lots of liquids particularly icy liquids as hydration is essential.  Soft diet, and advance to regular as tolerated.  Your doctor will likely prescribe pain medication if Tylenol/ibuprophen is not adequate.  Expect low grad temps, bad breath.

Question 5

when can i smoke after tonsillectomy ?

Accepted Answer

Ask your doctor: At 18 y/o you should really consider not taking it up again.  Smoking is a leading factor in heart attacks and the number one factor in lung cancers and copd.  Being a cardiothoracic surgeon i unfortunately see the end stages of these diseases.   Take this opportunity to stop.  Breathing through a hole in your neck in a wheelchair with one leg on dialysis and in heart failure isn't fun or cool.

Question 6

what can i expect from a tonsillectomy?

Accepted Answer

Sore throat: Adults tolerate less well than kids, but sore throat and concern for bleeding.
Better techniques have reduced concerns and complications.

Question 7

what to eat its day 3 of tonsillectomy?

Accepted Answer

Anything you want: I tend to not restrict diet in any way.  Some ents say to stick to a soft diet but that is more of an older way of thinking. If there was something more difficult with your surgery your doctor may give you specific instructions on what not to eat- obviously follow that.

Be sure to stay hydrated.  Beyond  that, hot, cold, dairy, bubbly, juice, bread, chicken, pizza,  you name it... Chow down.

Question 8

7 days after tonsillectomy. can i gargle??

Accepted Answer

Yes should be safe.: If you have any excessive pain or bleeding then you should stop.

Question 9

how long after a tonsillectomy could i swim?

Accepted Answer

Ask surgeon: Please let your surgeon answer this for you. That is the person responsible for your care after surgery.

Question 10

how quickly can they schedule a tonsillectomy?

Accepted Answer

Depends on: your medical condition ( and medical clearance ) availability of facility and surgeon. Speak to your doctor

Get Virtual Care

For Businesses

About Us

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Doctor answers about:

How long after tonsillectomy can I return to physical actuvities

A member asked:

Why does it take longer to recover from a tonsillectomy as an adult vs. as a child?

A member asked:

What is a tonsillectomy like?

A member asked:

What happens during a tonsillectomy?

A member asked:

How can i prepare for a tonsillectomy?

A member asked:

When can i smoke after tonsillectomy ?

A member asked:

What can i expect from a tonsillectomy?

A member asked:

What to eat its day 3 of tonsillectomy?

A member asked:

7 days after tonsillectomy. can i gargle??

A member asked:

How long after a tonsillectomy could i swim?

A member asked:

How quickly can they schedule a tonsillectomy?

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Telemedicine

Primary Care

Manage Your Conditions

Women's Health

Children's Health

Men's Health

Senior Health

Wellness, Prevention & Lifestyle

Sexual Health

Mental & Behavioral Health

Travel Medicine

Urgent Care

Didn't find what you're looking for?

More of what we treat

Allergies

Antibiotics

Asthma

High Blood Pressure

Prescriptions

Type 2 Diabetes

For Businesses

Company

Health Content

Join Us

Download HealthTap

Questions?