Tonsillectomy: Why Do People Get Their Tonsils Removed?

You might not think much about your tonsils until they start causing problems. Maybe it’s constant sore throats, swollen glands, or trouble sleeping at night. That’s when many people ask why do people get their tonsils removed.

Your tonsils are two small lumps of tissue at the back of your throat. They help trap germs and are part of your immune system, especially when young. But sometimes, your tonsils can cause more harm than good.

As an ENT specialist, I often see patients who are suffering from repeated throat infections, swollen tonsils, or breathing issues at night. If you're experiencing the same thing, it’s normal to have questions about tonsil removal, also known as a tonsillectomy.

With that, let’s discuss everything you need to know about tonsillectomy before you get one.

What Is a Tonsillectomy?

A tonsillectomy is a surgery to remove your tonsils. It’s one of the most common procedures done in both children and adults.

A tonsillectomy used to be a common way to treat tonsillitis, which is when your tonsils get infected or inflamed. These days, it's still done for that reason, but usually only if the infections keep coming back or don’t improve with other treatments.

Sometimes, the main reason people get a tonsillectomy is to fix breathing issues during sleep, like sleep apnea. It can also help with other problems caused by large tonsils or, in rare cases, certain diseases affecting the tonsils.

In most cases, the surgeon removes both tonsils completely, but sometimes only part of the tonsils needs to come out. Recovery usually takes about 10 to 14 days.

What are the Common Reasons People Get Their Tonsils Removed?

Here are the most common reasons an ENT might recommend a tonsillectomy:

1. Recurrent Tonsillitis

If you’ve had tonsillitis several times in a year—typically 7 or more infections in 12 months—it could be time to consider tonsil removal. Ongoing infections cause pain, fever, and missed school or work.

2. Chronic Tonsillitis

Some people have tonsils that are always swollen or slightly infected. This leads to a constant sore throat, bad breath, and low-grade discomfort that doesn’t go away.

3. Tonsil Stones (Tonsilloliths)

Tonsil stones are hard, white, or yellow formations that get stuck in the crevices of the tonsils. They can cause bad breath and a feeling of something stuck in your throat.

4. Obstructive Sleep Problems

Enlarged tonsils can block the airway, especially at night. This can cause loud snoring, restless sleep, or even sleep apnea, where you stop breathing for short moments during sleep.

5. Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing

Swollen tonsils can make it hard to eat or breathe, especially in children. If they’re interfering with daily activities, removal may help.

6. Suspicion of Cancer or Growths

Though rare, if there’s a lump or unusual growth on the tonsils, your ENT may recommend removing them for testing.

What’s the Difference Between Tonsillectomy in Adults vs. Children?

While it’s more common for children, many adults need a tonsillectomy too. The reasons are often the same—like repeated infections or sleep problems—but the experience can be different.

Here’s how a tonsillectomy compares between adults and children:

1. Healing Time

Adults usually need more time to recover from a tonsillectomy compared to kids. While children often bounce back in about one to two weeks, adults may take anywhere from two to four weeks to fully heal.

2. Pain Level

Adults often experience more pain and discomfort after a tonsillectomy than children. This could be because there's typically more tissue to heal in adults, and they may also have more scar tissue from previous infections.

3. Bleeding Risk 

There’s a slightly higher chance of bleeding after surgery in adults than in children. This is something your ENT will watch closely.

4. Reason for Surgery

Both kids and adults can have a tonsillectomy if they keep getting tonsillitis. But for adults, the surgery is also often done to treat sleep apnea or other breathing problems.

5. Lifestyle Impact

Adults often have to take time off work and manage their recovery more carefully, especially with eating, drinking, and rest.

What to Expect Before and After a Tonsillectomy?

If you’re planning to get your tonsils removed, it’s normal to feel a bit nervous. Knowing what to expect before and after a tonsillectomy can help ease your mind and make the process smoother.

Before the Surgery:

• You’ll meet with your ENT to go over your medical history and symptoms.

• You might need some basic blood work or a physical checkup.

• You’ll be given instructions on when to stop eating and drinking before the procedure.

• It’s usually done under general anesthesia, so you’ll be asleep the whole time.

During the Surgery:

• The procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

• The surgeon removes the tonsils through your mouth—no cuts on the outside.

• Most patients go home the same day.

After the Surgery:

• Expect a sore throat. The pain might also spread to your ears or jaw.

• It’s common to have scabs in the throat. They fall off on their own.

• Stick to soft, cool foods like applesauce, mashed potatoes, or ice cream.

• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

• Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods until you’ve fully healed.

Recovery Timeline:

• Kids usually recover in 7–10 days.

• Adults may need up to two weeks or more.

Tips for a Smoother Recovery:

• Take pain medicine as directed.

• Rest as much as possible.

• Avoid heavy activity, especially during the first week.

Is Tonsillectomy the Right Choice for You?

Deciding whether to get your tonsils removed isn’t always easy. But if your tonsils are affecting your daily life, it may be time to seriously consider it.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I get sore throats or tonsillitis often, more than 6 or 7 times a year?

• Are my tonsils causing me to snore or stop breathing at night?

• Do I have trouble swallowing or feel like something is always stuck in my throat?

• Have I had to miss work, school, or important activities because of throat problems?

• Have I tried other treatments, but still have pain or infections?

If you said yes to any of these, a tonsillectomy might be worth discussing with an ENT specialist, Dr. David Opperman.

Conclusion

If your tonsils are constantly causing problems—whether it’s infections, pain, or sleep trouble—it’s worth looking into why people get their tonsils removed. A tonsillectomy isn’t right for everyone, but for many, it brings relief and a better quality of life.

Talk to an ENT specialist you trust. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and figure out the best path forward. When done for the right reasons, tonsil removal can help you feel better and breathe easier—literally.

FAQs

1. Is tonsillectomy painful?

Yes, you’ll likely have a sore throat, especially in the first week. Pain can also affect your ears. Medicine and soft foods can help a lot.

2. Do you need your tonsils?

Tonsils help fight infections, but many people live healthy lives without them. If they’re causing more harm than good, removal is a safe option.

3. Can tonsils grow back after removal?

It’s rare, but in some cases, a small bit of tonsil tissue may regrow. It usually doesn’t cause any issues.