Tonsillectomy: Before Your Child's Surgery
What is a tonsillectomy?
A tonsillectomy is surgery to remove the tonsils. Sometimes the
adenoids are removed at the same time. Your doctor will do the
surgery through your child's mouth. After the surgery, your child
may not have a sore throat as often. If your child had trouble
breathing at night, those breathing problems may improve.
Your child will be fine without tonsils and will not look different.
You won't be able to see any scars from the surgery.
Children can usually go home 2 to 4 hours after the surgery. They
usually have a sore throat and ear pain for up to 2 weeks after
surgery. Your child will probably be able to go back to school or
day care in 1 week and to full activity in 2 weeks.
How do you prepare for surgery?
Surgery can be stressful for both your child and you. This
information will help you understand what you can expect. And it
will help you safely prepare for your child's surgery.
Preparing for surgery
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Tell the doctor ALL the medicines, vitamins, supplements,
and herbal remedies your child takes. Some may increase
the risk of problems during the surgery. Your doctor will
tell you if your child should stop taking any of them
before the surgery and how soon to do it.
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The day before surgery
What happens on the day of surgery?
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Follow the instructions exactly about when your child should stop
eating and drinking. If you don't, the surgery may be canceled. If
the doctor told you to have your child take any medicines on the
day of surgery, have your child take them with only a sip of
water.
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Have your child take a bath or shower before you come in. Do not
apply lotion or deodorant.
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Your child may brush their teeth. But tell your child not to
swallow any toothpaste or water.
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Do not let your child wear contact lenses. Bring your child's
glasses or contact lens case.
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Be sure your child has something that's a reminder of home. A
special stuffed animal, toy, or blanket may be comforting. For an
older child, it might be a book or music.
At the hospital or surgery center
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A parent or legal guardian must accompany your child.
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Your child will be kept comfortable and safe by the anesthesia
provider. Your child will be asleep during the surgery.
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The surgery usually takes less than 1 hour.
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After surgery, your child will be taken to the recovery room. As
your child wakes up, the recovery room staff will monitor your
child's condition. The doctor will talk to you about the surgery.
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You will probably be able to take your child home 2 to 4 hours
after the surgery.
When should you call your doctor?
Current as of: September 27, 2023
Content Version: 14.0
Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare
professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or
this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional.
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