Brisbane, QLD 4000
Doctors : Click here to refer a patient
Dr Sharon Kelly Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon
07 3831 7866 Brisbane, QLD admin@drsharonkellyent.com.au

Post Operative Instructions Tonsillectomy Or Adenotonsillectomy

After a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, patients should rest, drink plenty of cool fluids, and eat soft foods for about two weeks. Manage pain with alternating pain medications as directed by your doctor and avoid strenuous activity for at least two weeks.

General

  • It is normal to have a sore throat, ear pain (which can be a referred pain), and a fever up to 38 degrees Celsius.
  • A white membrane will form where the tonsils were located. This will disappear in seven to ten days. This is normal and not an infection.
  • Bad breath is also normal and will improve as the scabs heal.

Pain management

  • Follow your doctor's instructions for pain medication, which often involves alternating between two different types of pain relievers to be given at different times.
  • Pain Killers are usually needed. Paracetamol and Ibuprofen on an alternate basis are often sufficient. Oxycodone syrup is helpful for children. Panadeine forte or other strong analgesia maybe needed for adults three times daily.
  • Ice chips and popsicles can be soothing.

Diet

  • It’s important to eat normally. The longer the delay before beginning to eat and drink, the more discomfort there will be. Maintaining an adequate fluid intake is essential. Citrus fruit and tomatoes may sting the throat.
  • Avoid very hot liquids for two weeks
  • A normal consistency diet is preferred. No excessive reliance on soft foods.

Activity and rest

  • Rest for the first few days. Avoid vigorous activity, sports, and heavy lifting for at least two weeks.
  • Most children will need to stay home from school or daycare for up to two weeks.
  • Activity levels should be guided by how the patient feels.

Bleeding

  • Occasionally bleeding occurs up to two weeks after surgery. If bleeding occurs, wait 15-20 minutes. If it stops then no further action is needed. If bleeding continues go directly to the emergency department of the hospital where the operation was performed. The hospital will contact Dr Kelly. Do Not go to your local doctor. Do not go to another hospital. Neither your local GP nor other hospitals will be able to manage the problem.

For all emergencies, please call the on call ENT Specialist on 0499 330 021