Getting Your Tonsils Out: A Kid's Guide to Tonsillectomies

What is a Tonsillectomy?

A tonsillectomy is a type of surgery where a doctor will remove your tonsils. This can actually keep you from getting sick!

What Are Tonsils?

Take a look int he mirror, open your mouth up wide, and say "Ahhhh". Do you see those two bumps on each side of your mouth? Those are your tonsils. That thing that hangs down from your mouth is called the uvula. It helps keep food out of your nose. Today we're focused on the tonsils.

Tonsils help your body stay healthy and fight off germs. They're a part of your immune system--the system in your body that keeps you from getting sick. The tonsils are like the first line of defense that catches germs before they enter your body.

When your tonsils are working, you'll get less sick, and you'll usually sleep better at night too.

When your tonsils aren't working, you'll get sick more often--coughing, sore throats, even bad breath. This could also keep you from sleeping well at night because it's harder to breathe.

Why Take Tonsils Out?

Sometimes, tonsils stop doing their job and get infected. This is called tonsillitis. Doctors may try medicine first, but if it doesn’t help, taking the tonsils out can be the best way to stop you from getting sick again.

What Happens During a Tonsillectomy?

First, a doctor will give you special sleepy-time medicine called anesthesia. This helps you fall asleep so you won’t feel anything during the surgery. While you're snoozing, the doctor gently opens your mouth and carefully removes your tonsils. The whole thing usually takes about 30 minutes — that's shorter than your favorite movie! When you wake up, you might feel a little tired or sore, but you'll be in a cozy recovery area with nurses and maybe even your grown-up nearby. Most kids get to go home the same day to rest, relax, and maybe even eat some cold treats like popsicles or ice cream.

What Are Tiny Tips to Feel Better Faster?

To feel better faster, drink lots of water, rest, and listen to grown-ups. Take some time to watch your favorite shows or read a good book or comic.

Don’t worry — lots of kids have had their tonsils removed. Getting your tonsils out is super safe, and before you know it, you’ll feel way better! You might even forget you ever had them. Plus, fewer sore throats? Yes, please and thank you!