What to Expect Before and After a Tonsillectomy
What to Expect Before and After A Tonsillectomy
At Downriver ENT, we’re proud to serve patients from throughout Allen Park, Southfield, and Dearborn, MI with comprehensive ear, nose, and throat medical care. One of the more common illnesses our Allen Park throat doctors see is tonsillitis.In short, a bacteria called Streptococcus Pyogenes typically causes tonsillitis or strep throat.If this occurs too often or doesn’t improve with antibiotics, we will usually have to remove the tonsils in a tonsillectomy.
How To Prepare For A Tonsillectomy
If you have recurring or severe tonsillitis throughout the year, our Southfield ENT specialists may suggest you get a tonsillectomy. You should plan to take at least two weeks off from school or work after the procedure. You’ll get specific instructions at the hospital on how to prepare yourself or your child for a tonsillectomy.
What To Tell Your ENT Doctor:
Before you or your loved one’s surgery you should tell your doctor the following:
- Provide all medications you are currently taking regularly. This includes vitamins, supplements, and over the counter drugs.
- Any family history of reactions to anesthetics, or bleeding disorders.
- Tell your physician about any negative reactions you or your child have had to medications or antibiotics.
What Should You Do Before A Tonsillectomy
You should start preparing for your tonsillectomy well before the day of your surgery:
- Don’t take any aspirin or medications that have aspirin in them for at least two weeks before surgery.
- Like almost all surgeries, make sure not to eat anything after midnight before your surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions about eating and drinking before coming to the hospital.
- Make arrangements for your trip home after the operation.
- Plan for at least ten days of recovery, however, we recommend taking a full two weeks.
Some Questions to Ask Your Doctor
If you’re not sure what you should be asking your doctor or medical staff before surgery, here are a couple of ideas:
- When should I arrive at the hospital?
- Where do I need to check in before my surgery?
- What will I be able to eat after surgery?
What Should I Expect After My Tonsillectomy?
Most tonsillectomies are an outpatient procedure unless it is performed on a younger child or there are other medical conditions prevalent. If you are allowed to go home the same day, there are some things you will want to keep in mind.
There will be some pain after surgery, and it varies from person to person. For the most part, you will notice pain from your throat, ears, or possible your jaw and neck. Here are some tips to help mitigate the pain after a tonsillectomy:
- Make sure to take your medication as directed by your doctor.
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
- Eat bland foods that are easy to swallow like applesauce and broth. As time goes on you can then introduce more enjoyable foods like ice cream and pudding. Make sure to avoid anything spicy, crunchy, or acidic because they may cause severe irritation.
- Make sure to rest after your surgery. Take this time to recover and avoid any strenuous activity.
Contact Your Southfield ENT Specialists Today
If you’re looking for an ENT specialist in Allen Park, Southfield, and Dearborn look no further. Our doctors are here for you, feel free to contact us if you have any questions or would like someone to take a look at your sore throat. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
