Tonsillitis can cause uncomfortable symptoms like a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, tender lymph nodes and pain in the head, neck or stomach. If your child experiences frequent tonsil infections, your ENT at Advantage ENT & Audiology may recommend a tonsillectomy.
Typically, this surgery is only recommended if your child experiences multiple cases of tonsillitis. If your doctor determines it may be the best treatment, we will guide your family on what to expect during each step of the procedure.
What Are the Tonsils?
The tonsils are pads of tissue that line the throat and prevent germs from entering the body.
How Common Are Tonsillectomies?
This procedure is not as common as it once was, but surgeons in the United States perform more than 500,000 tonsillectomies annually.
When Is a Tonsillectomy Recommended?
Removal of the tonsils is recommended in cases where children have experienced more than seven diagnosed tonsil infections in one year, five each year for two years or three each year in three years.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Our team will explain the tonsillectomy process to your family in detail so you can feel confident about what’s to come. The procedure is done under general anesthesia and is completed through your child’s open mouth. There are no visible scars.
Many patients return home later the same day after a tonsillectomy. Prior to the procedure, we will discuss how best to help your child during the recovery period. If your child is experiencing frequent tonsil infections, our compassionate providers at Advantage ENT & Audiology are here to help. Schedule an appointment today to get started.