Tonsillectomy (Tonsillectomy)
What is Tonsillectomy (Tonsillectomy)?
There are lymphoid tissues behind the mouth and nose to help the body fight germs. The ones on either side of the throat are called tonsilla palatina (tonsils). These lymphoid tissues welcome viruses and bacteria that enter the body at the entrance to the mouth and nose. Over time, they recognize them and produce antibodies against them, allowing our immune system to develop. Especially tonsils and adenoids grow gradually until the age of 5-6, then start to shrink and regress to the size of an adult at the age of 11. Especially in frequent infections and allergies, these tissues grow more than normal and do not shrink.
Sometimes, even if the tonsils are not inflamed at all, if they have grown too large and cause sleep apnea (intermittent breathing during sleep), they still need to be removed. Children with tonsil problems usually have poor appetite and growth and development is slower than their peers. The age of surgery is usually 3 years and older. However, if it causes sleep apnea, it is operated at a much earlier age. Because the risks of sleep apnea are higher than the risks of surgery.
Suitable Candidates for Tonsillectomy (Tonsillectomy)
Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure usually performed in response to recurrent tonsil infections, breathing problems due to enlarged tonsils, sleep apnea or other serious health problems with the tonsils. Suitable candidates are usually children suffering from recurrent tonsil infections or individuals with breathing difficulties due to enlarged tonsils. In addition, conditions such as sleep apnea caused by tonsils may also require tonsillectomy. However, every patient situation is different, so the decision for surgery should be made by an otolaryngologist, based on the individual’s specific condition and symptoms.
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Tonsillectomy (Tonsillectomy) Recovery Process
Recovery after tonsillectomy varies from individual to individual, but usually takes several weeks. Surgery is usually performed in response to recurrent tonsil infections, breathing problems or other tonsil problems. In the first few days, patients usually experience mild pain, swelling and discomfort in the throat. In the post-surgical period, it is important to use the medications recommended by the doctor regularly, rest, pay attention to fluid intake and avoid certain foods. After surgery, pain and discomfort usually gradually decrease and patients begin to return to their normal activities. However, the full recovery process varies depending on the complexity of the surgery, the overall health of the patient and how effectively the post-surgical care is implemented. Post-surgical check-ups are important for the doctor to assess the patient’s recovery.
