Tonsillectomy

Also known as: tonsil removal, surgical removal of the tonsils.

What is tonsillectomy?

Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the tonsils. It is a common surgery used to treat obstructive sleep apnea, sleep disordered breathing and recurrent tonsillitis.

What happens during the procedure?

Tonsillectomy is performed under general anesthesia. The surgery is performed through the mouth and takes about 30 minutes to complete.

Is any special preparation needed?

The patient will be instructed to avoid food, drink and certain medications before the surgery.

What are the risk factors?

Infection, bleeding, swelling, difficulty eating or swallowing, and injury to surrounding structures are potential risks of tonsillectomy.

Reviewed by: Sandeep P Dave, MD

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:43 PM

Otolaryngology (ENT)

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