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Tonsillectomy

SoCal ENT provides safe, expert pediatric tonsillectomy to treat chronic tonsillitis, improve breathing, and enhance sleep quality for children.

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Helping Kids Thrive with Healthier Airways

Why Choose SoCal ENT for Tonsillectomy?

If your child regularly suffers from sore throats, trouble swallowing, or repeated bouts of tonsillitis, a pediatric tonsillectomy may offer lasting relief.

At SoCal ENT, our skilled ENT specialists perform gentle, effective tonsil removal to help children breathe easier, sleep better, and feel more comfortable overall. Using advanced, minimally invasive methods and a compassionate approach, we prioritize your child’s safety and comfort every step of the way.

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Tonsillectomy at a Glance

  • Treatment Type: Tonsil removal performed through a surgical procedure
  • Ideal Candidates: Children who experience repeated tonsil infections or have enlarged tonsils that interfere with breathing or eating
  • Time Required: Typically completed in 30 to 45 minutes
  • Type of Anesthesia: General anesthesia is used to ensure your child remains asleep and pain-free
  • Healing Period: Most children recover within 1 to 2 weeks, with steady improvement daily
  • Lasting Results: Reduced frequency of throat infections, easier breathing, and better sleep quality
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When Tonsils Become a Problem

What are tonsils & why do they become infected?

Tonsils are two small, gland-like structures found at the back of the throat that play a role in the body’s immune defense. They help filter out bacteria and viruses before they reach the lungs or bloodstream. However, in some children, the tonsils can become persistently inflamed or infected, resulting in repeated episodes of throat pain, swelling, and general illness.

Tonsillitis refers to this infection of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial exposure. It spreads easily through actions like coughing, sneezing, or sharing food and drinks.

Chronic Tonsillitis Signs & Symptoms

If your child regularly shows any of the symptoms below, a tonsillectomy may be a recommended:

  • Multiple sore throats each year (typically five or more)
  • Pain or trouble when swallowing food
  • Frequent high fevers and tender lymph nodes in the neck
  • Visible white patches or discharge on the tonsils
  • Chronic bad breath caused by trapped bacteria
  • Loud snoring or labored breathing during sleep, possibly linked to sleep apnea
  • Daytime tiredness or mood changes from interrupted sleep

When tonsillitis becomes a recurring issue or enlarged tonsils begin to obstruct breathing, tonsil removal can provide lasting relief and help your child feel and sleep better.

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What to Expect

What is the tonsillectomy procedure like?

A pediatric tonsillectomy is a common, low-risk outpatient surgery performed under general anesthesia.

What to Expect During the Procedure:

  • Your child will be gently put to sleep with anesthesia to ensure they feel no discomfort.
  • The tonsils are then removed using one of several modern surgical methods:
  • Cold knife technique – A traditional method using a scalpel to excise the tonsils.
  • Electrocautery – Utilizes heat to remove the tissue and control bleeding simultaneously.
  • Coblation – A radiofrequency method that uses lower temperatures to reduce post-op pain and speed recovery.
  • The surgery typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes, and your child will begin to wake up in the recovery room shortly afterward.
  • In most cases, children are discharged the same day and can begin their recovery at home.
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Give Your Child the Relief They Deserve

What are the benefits of a tonsillectomy?

A tonsillectomy offers lasting relief and can significantly enhance your child’s daily comfort and wellness by:

  • Lowering the frequency of throat infections
  • Supporting better sleep by relieving nighttime breathing issues
  • Resolving ongoing sore throats and swallowing discomfort
  • Boosting energy, attention span, and classroom performance
  • Reducing reliance on antibiotics and repeated medical appointments

Many families notice a clear improvement in their child’s sleep quality, overall health, and mood following the procedure.

Signs It May Be Time for Surgery

Is my child a candidate for tonsillectomy?

Your child may be a candidate for a tonsillectomy if they:

  • Experience frequent episodes of tonsillitis (five or more times annually)
  • Have enlarged tonsils that interfere with breathing or make swallowing difficult
  • Regularly suffer from sore throats, fever, and swollen lymph nodes
  • Snore loudly or have been diagnosed with sleep apnea due to tonsil size
  • Deal with persistent bad breath or recurring tonsil stones despite proper oral care

If you're uncertain whether surgery is the right step, the team at SoCal ENT is here to evaluate your child’s symptoms and guide you toward the most effective solution.

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Your Child’s Road to Better Health

Tonsillectomy Recovery & Aftercare

Most children recover from a tonsillectomy within 1 to 2 weeks, with many able to return to school after about 7 to 10 days.

What to Expect While Healing

  • Sore throat and mild swelling are common during the first week or two
  • A diet of soft foods and plenty of fluids helps promote comfort and recovery
  • Spicy, acidic, and crunchy foods should be avoided during the initial healing phase
  • Rest is essential—light activity only for the first few days

Our specialists at SoCal ENT will provide clear aftercare instructions and ongoing support to make your child’s recovery as smooth and comfortable as possible.

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Tonsillectomy Frequently Asked Questions

After surgery, your child may have mild to moderate throat pain, which can be effectively managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers. Ensuring they stay hydrated helps soothe the throat and promotes recovery. Offering warm liquids like soup or herbal teas can provide additional comfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your provider for further evaluation and treatment options.

The pediatric tonsillectomy procedure lasts about 30–45 minutes. It is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning your child will return home the same day.

Mild sore throats and colds can still occur, but tonsil removal significantly reduces the frequency of these illnesses.

Children can typically go back to school after 7–10 days, but they will need to refrain from strenuous activities for about 2 weeks.

No, your child's immune system will adapt, with other tissues continuing to fight infections after tonsillectomy.