Tonsillectomy in children

Tonsillectomies are a common surgical procedure that your child may need to have when dealing with tonsil problems. Throughout the surgery, we will not only ensure your child is fully supported but also provide you with all the knowledge you need to help them recover at home.  

Our surgeons routinely perform tonsillectomies and we are recognised experts in the procedure. You can rest assured that your child is in safe hands by choosing our ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists. Our team are highly experienced in performing tonsillectomies routinely and will ensure your child’s health and safety are prioritised throughout the procedure. 

What is a tonsillectomy?

A tonsillectomy refers to removal of your child’s tonsils. These are located in the back of their throat, on either side, and work with your child’s immune system to help filter out germs that enter through their nose or mouth. 

There are various reasons why you child may need to have their tonsils removed. This includes if they are having recurrent infections like tonsillitis or if their tonsils are causing obstructive symptoms resulting in breathing and sleep problems. 

Book an appointment with Guy’s and St Thomas’ Specialist Care

If your child is struggling with recurrent tonsil infections or you believe they may have sleep apnoea caused by enlarged tonsils, book a consultation with our team of experts. We will be able to advise you if a tonsillectomy is right for your child and answer any questions you may have. 

Before a tonsillectomy 

Before your child undergoes a tonsillectomy, you’ll be advised by the doctor if any medication they take needs to be stopped, as well as when they will need to stop eating and drinking.  

Your child is likely to feel nervous before their surgery, so do your best to keep them calm and let them know what to expect before, during and after the procedure. 

During a tonsillectomy 

A tonsillectomy is performed by one of our highly skilled ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeons, supported by a full healthcare team. This wider team will include an anaesthetist who will help ensure your child is safe and comfortably asleep (under general anaesthetic) while the procedure is being performed.  

Tonsillectomies usually take around 30-45 minutes to complete. This may be longer if combined with other common ENT procedures such as adenoidectomy or grommet insertion. 

There are two different methods of performing a tonsillectomy – traditional and intracapsular.  

Traditional tonsillectomies are where both tonsils are completely removed, whereas an intracapsular tonsillectomy is where the affected tonsil tissue is removed but a small layer (the capsule) of the tonsil is left to help protect the underlying throat. For this reason, intracapsular tonsillectomies do carry a risk of regrowth and recurrent tonsillitis and may require further surgery to remove what is remaining. Your surgeon will explain in more detail the risks and benefits of both approaches. 

Tonsillectomies are performed through your child’s open mouth so there will be no visible cuts or scars afterwards. 

Can I stay with my child during their tonsillectomy? 

You’ll be able to stay with your child up until the point the anaesthetic needs to be administered. However, you will then need to return to the waiting room until the surgery has been completed.  

After a tonsillectomy 

After their tonsillectomy, your child will be taken to the recovery room to wake up. Most children can go home on the same day. However, certain children may need to stay overnight in hospital for observation depending on their age or if they sleep apnoea.  

Helping your child recover after a tonsillectomy 

Recovering from a tonsillectomy will take around a week and your child will need your support throughout. We usually recommend at least a week off school/nursery. 

They will most likely experience some pain and soreness in their throat, making it difficult for them to eat and drink. Therefore, to avoid dehydration, you must encourage them to drink water and offer them foods that are easy for them to swallow.  

Paracetamol or ibuprofen may be recommended to ease your child’s pain and make it easier for them to eat and drink. If this is the case, always follow the recommended dosage for pain relief medication and ask your doctor if you’re not sure.  

Why would my child need a tonsillectomy? 

Your child may need a tonsillectomy for a variety of reasons. However, the most common reason is due to either recurrent or chronic tonsillitis or large obstructive tonsils. 

Tonsillitis can be viral or bacterial, with bacterial being the only type that’s treatable with antibiotics. However, antibiotics or home remedies are not enough on their own if your child keeps developing tonsil infections. 

If your child is diagnosed with a tonsil infection multiple times in a short space of time, a tonsillectomy will be recommended.  

Another common reason for a tonsillectomy is due to your child’s tonsils becoming enlarged and blocking their airways, often experienced at night when they’re trying to sleep. If this is the case, your child may develop obstructive sleep apnoea over time, a condition where they will snore and stop breathing for short periods while they sleep. 

Tonsillectomy risks in children 

Any surgery has potential risks and tonsillectomies are no exception.  

The main risk associated with tonsillectomies is pain. With intracapsular approaches and regular painkillers, this impact can be minimised. While rare, anaesthetic complications can also occur.

The risk of infection is low however, children may also find it difficult to drink when at home, which could lead to dehydration. While rare, anaesthetic complications can also occur.

Another rare risk is bleeding either during or after surgery, this is reduced with the intracapsular technique. If your child coughs or spits out blood after they have got home, call for medical attention immediately as they may need further surgery to stop the bleeding.

Get in touch with our ear, nose and throat specialists 

It’s natural to worry about your child when they undergo surgery. At Evelina London Children’s Hospital we specialise in children’s surgeries, so you can feel rest assured your child will receive the highest level of care. Book an appointment with our team today.