A tonsillectomy and an adenoidectomy are common surgeries to remove your tonsils and adenoids. You will generally need these surgeries, if you have five or more infections in one year or are having complications related to the size of your tonsils. The tonsillectomy generally will only take about 30 to 45 minutes and can be performed in a same day surgical center that is generally connected to a hospital.
When you are returning from the operating room, you will still be sedated, but you will awaken soon after arriving to the recovery room. It is common to have a sore throat when you wake up, and your nurse will be able treat your pain. You will likely ask your nurse or a family member the same question multiple times and will be unable to remember that you already asked the question. This is normal due to the medications that you are given during the surgery.
You will generally be discharged to home following the surgery unless, you have a significant history of sleep apnea or have a complication during the tonsillectomy. If you are under the age of 19, you will likely recover from the tonsillectomy over the course of 7 to 14 days. While if you are an adult, you can expect to recover between two to three weeks. These are just general estimates and your recovery may differ based on your own recovery rate.
The most common complaint following surgery is throat pain that can impair your ability to eat. Your doctor will prescribe medications to help manage your pain. Taking the medications as needed will help you to eat and drink after surgery.