Having your tonsils removed is a surgical procedure called a tonsillectomy.
Verywell / Maritsa Patrinos
Preparation
Tonsillectomies are performed undergeneral anesthesia.
You will be completely asleep and will not be able to feel pain during the procedure.
Verywell / Maritsa Patrinos
To reduce the risk of vomiting with anesthesia, you will not be able to eat before surgery.
Your healthcare provider or nurse will give you exact instructions about when to stop eating and drinking.
You should wear loose comfortable clothing to the surgical center.
This requires a small amount of urine.
ensure you bring comfortable clothing and extra diapers or underwear.
You will need to stop any medication that thins the blood one to two weeks before the procedure.
You will also need to remove contact lenses, dentures, and hearing aids.
You will need to discuss which method is right for you with your surgeon.
Recovery
You will be monitored by a nurse for a few hours after having your tonsils removed.
Typical medications used include the opioids oxycodone and hydrocodone.
You should not drive while taking any of these medications.
Your pain should gradually subside within a few days.
U.S. National Library of Medicine, MedlinePlus.Tonsillectomy.
Cleveland Clinic.Tonsillectomy: Procedure details.
2019;:1-5. doi:10.1017/S0022215119001762
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Acetaminophen information.
