Your tonsils, two small lumps of tissue in the back of your throat, help fight infection - but sometimes they cause more problems than they prevent. But sometimes, they can cause more trouble than they are worth.
When your tonsils continually become a nuisance, it could be time to consider a tonsillectomy, an outpatient surgery to remove your tonsils.
Read on to understand the purpose of tonsils, reasons why you might need to have them removed and what to expect if you need a tonsillectomy.
What is a tonsillectomy?
A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils, usually performed to treat frequent infections, breathing problems or other complications.
What do your tonsils do?
The tonsils are located in the back of your throat, on either side, and are a part of the lymphatic system, which plays a vital role in fighting off diseases.
“Because of their location, they are like an early warning system for our body,” said Bruce Stewart, MD, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist with Banner – University Medicine. “Their main function is to trap bacteria, viruses and other pathogens that you might inhale or ingest while breathing or eating.”
When these germs get trapped in the tonsils, your immune system springs into action, producing white blood cells to attack and destroy the invaders, preventing them from causing further harm to your body.
Sometimes, however, the tonsils can become infected, leading to conditions like tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils).
Why would you need a tonsillectomy?
Although tonsillectomies are more common among children, some adults may benefit from the procedure too.
Your health care provider or an ENT specialist may recommend a tonsillectomy in certain situations, including:
1. Recurrent or chronic tonsillitis or strep throat
If you have tonsillitis, you will likely develop a fever along with a very sore throat that makes it painful and difficult to swallow.
Most infections are treated with antibiotics. But if you suffer from chronic infections, a tonsillectomy may be the best treatment option.
“The timing of surgery can vary among doctors, but I recommend surgery to my patients when they’ve had three or more infections in one year,” Dr. Stewart said.
2. Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Enlarged tonsils can block the airway and make breathing difficult, especially during sleep. This can lead to sleep apnea, causing poor sleep quality, snoring and daytime sleepiness.
Similarly, difficulty swallowing due to enlarged tonsils can also affect your ability to eat and drink comfortably.
3. Tonsil stones
Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are small, hard deposits that can form in the crypts (folds) of the tonsils. They are formed by debris such as food, dead cells and other substances.
They might not always cause problems, but if they lead to persistent bad breath or discomfort, your provider might recommend a tonsillectomy.
4. Cancer of the tonsils
Whether you have tonsils or not, you could develop tonsil cancer. About 70% of cancers in the oropharynx (tonsils, soft palate and base of tongue) are linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted virus.
A biopsy helps to rule out the possibility of throat or other cancers. To complete the biopsy, a tonsillectomy may be performed first.
Is a tonsillectomy painful?
It's normal to have a sore throat and discomfort after a tonsillectomy. Pain is usually manageable with medication, rest and hydration, but recovery can take longer in adults than in children.
When should you see a doctor about tonsil problems?
If you experience any of the following signs, you should see your health care provider or an ENT specialist:
- Frequent or persistent sore throats
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Persistent bad breath
- Swollen tonsils or throat pain
How long does it take to recover from a tonsillectomy?
Recovery typically takes about 10 days to two weeks, though adults may need more time to fully heal.
What to expect before, during and after a tonsillectomy
Your provider may try some non-surgical treatments first, but a tonsillectomy may be the best course of action.
If this type of surgery is recommended, it will be performed by an ENT specialist, usually as an outpatient procedure.
While it’s natural to feel a bit nervous, it is a fairly simple procedure and one of the most common types of surgery. Here’s what you can expect before, during and after the procedure.
Before the procedure: Your ENT specialist will give you instructions to follow before the surgery, such as fasting (not eating or drinking for a specific time). They will also discuss any medications you need to stop taking before surgery.
During the procedure: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, which means you’ll be asleep during the procedure. The ENT specialist will carefully remove the tonsils through the mouth without any external incisions (cuts), so you will not have any visible scars.
After the procedure: After the surgery, you’ll need to rest and recover. Plan for 10 days to two weeks or more of recovery time.
You may experience a sore throat and mild pain, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications and cold compresses.
“The procedure is no different for adults and children, it’s just that adults take longer to heal,” Dr. Stewart said. “As long as you keep on schedule with your pain meds, rest and stay hydrated, the pain is manageable.”
Tonsillectomy in adults vs. children
Tonsillectomy is more common in children, but adults can benefit too. Adults often have a longer recovery time and may experience more discomfort during healing.
When should you seek emergency care after a tonsillectomy?
Call your doctor if you experience the following:
- A fever of 102 F (38.9 C) or higher
- Signs of dehydration (increased pain, lightheadedness and no urination)
- Severe or persistent ear pain
- Inability to swallow (even liquids)
- Uncontrolled nausea
Life-threatening complications from tonsillectomies are rare, but call 911 if you have trouble breathing.
Frequently asked questions about tonsillectomy
Why do adults get their tonsils removed?
Adults may need a tonsillectomy for chronic infections, breathing problems or tonsil stones.
How long is tonsillectomy recovery?
Most people recover in 10 days to two weeks, though adults may take longer.
Is a tonsillectomy safe?
It is a common and generally safe procedure, though like any surgery, it carries some risks.
Can tonsils grow back after removal?
It’s rare, but small amounts of tissue can sometimes regrow.
Takeaway
A tonsillectomy is a common surgery used to treat recurring tonsil problems, and recovery is manageable with proper care. Your provider will guide you through the entire process, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.
If you think you may have tonsil problems and want to see if a tonsillectomy could help, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor or find a Banner Health ENT specialist near you.
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- 9 Myths About HPV You Should Stop Believing
- Why Does My Throat Hurt When I Wake Up?
- Sore Throat or Strep Throat? Here are Telltale Signs
Content in this article was updated on April 9, 2026.
