Postop Tonsilectomy

Adenotonsillectomy requires an overnight stay. 2 weeks will be required off work or study. Travelling, heavy physical activity, or exercise should be avoided for 3 weeks.
There is significant pain in most adult patients, lasting for up to 2 weeks.
Unlike most surgery, where pain is greatest in the early postoperative period, the peak of pain after tonsillectomy is often at a significant delay.
Characteristically the peak of pain will occur between day 5 and day 10 after surgery. Referred ear pain is quite common at the peak of symptoms.
It is usual for the tonsillectomy wound to become swollen, with a yellow sloughy appearance.

Even with optimal pain relief, it can still be a struggle. We recommend the following regime
- REGULAR PARACETAMOL- 1g 4X day
- REGULAR NON STEROIDAL ANTIINFLAMMATORY eg Nurofen 200mg 3X day
- ENDONE 5mg up to 6X day, as required by symptoms
In the event of sensitivities or allergies to medications, there are other alternatives available.
Opiate medication such as Endone can contribute to constipation. It may be worth discussing a laxative with your pharmacist if there is difficulty opening your bowels.
If pain relief is not sufficient, please contact us at any time for further advice, as there is almost always something further that can be done.
If pain is unmanageable, to the point where oral intake is impossible, admission to hospital will be necessary.

In the event that bleeding occurs from the mouth or throat that does not immediately stop, present to your nearest emergency department.
There is a chance that further surgery may be required to stop the bleeding.

Postop Tonsillectomy