Removal of tonsils (tonsillectomy)
Removal of tonsils may be relevant for repeated sore throats, tonsil plugs with bad breath or very large tonsils that cause problems with breathing and sleep. At Charlottenlund Privathospital, the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis by specialists in ear, nose and throat diseases.
Tonsillectomy (Tonsil Removal)
A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure in which the tonsils are completely removed. This procedure is typically performed to treat recurrent sore throats, chronic tonsillitis accompanied by tonsil stones (tonsil plugs), or severely enlarged tonsils that obstruct normal breathing. At Charlottenlund Private Hospital, we offer tonsillectomies to adults and older children (weighing over 20 kg), while younger children with enlarged tonsils are often offered a gentler, partial reduction (tonsillotomy) instead.
What is tonsil removal (tonsillectomy)?
A tonsillectomy involves the complete surgical removal of the tonsils. While the tonsils are part of the immune system, they can be removed without impairing the body's ability to fight infections, as they comprise only a small fraction of the throat's overall immune defenses.
It is important to distinguish a tonsillectomy (complete removal) from a tonsillotomy (partial reduction), where only the protruding portion of the tonsil tissue is shaved down—a gentler method most commonly recommended for young children.
When should the tonsils be removed?
The decision to remove the tonsils is always based on a thorough medical assessment. Typically, surgery is recommended when symptoms are recurrent and significantly impact daily life.
According to national clinical guidelines from the Danish Health Authority (Sundhedsstyrelsen), surgery may be indicated for:
- Recurrent tonsillitis: At least five episodes within a single year, or at least three episodes per year for two consecutive years.
- Chronic irritation: Persistent inflammation accompanied by tonsil stones, bad breath, or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
- Sleep-disordered breathing: Severely enlarged tonsils that cause snoring or sleep apnea.
What are tonsil stones (plugs), and can surgery help?
Tonsil stones (or tonsil plugs) are small, off-white clusters of bacteria, dead cells, and food debris that collect in the deep crevices (crypts) of the tonsils. They often cause chronic bad breath, an unpleasant metallic taste, and the constant sensation of having something stuck in the throat.
If tonsil stones are highly recurrent and lead to chronic discomfort, removing the tonsils entirely eliminates the sites where these stones form. Your ENT specialist will assess whether your symptoms are indeed caused by the tonsils and advise if surgery is the most effective solution.
How is the operation performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes. The tonsils are surgically removed using the traditional and highly reliable "cold steel" instrument technique. We deliberately do not utilize laser or coblation methods, as clinical studies have not proven these techniques to be any safer or gentler for the patient. For adults and older children (over 20 kg), the surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day.
What is recovery like after a tonsillectomy?
The recovery period generally involves throat pain that can last for up to two weeks. Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the first few days, but the pain may temporarily increase around days 4 to 7 before gradually subsiding.
- Return to daily life: Most patients can return to work or school after 10 to 14 days.
- Restrictions: Vigorous physical activity, heavy lifting, and planned travel should be avoided during the entire two-week healing period.
- Bleeding risk: There is a small risk of post-operative bleeding for up to two weeks after surgery.
On the day of your procedure, you will receive comprehensive, written instructions regarding your recovery, dietary adjustments, and a customized pain management plan.
Does having your tonsils removed weaken your immune system?
No. Removing the tonsils does not weaken your immune system. The throat contains a vast network of other lymphoid tissues that easily compensate for the loss of the tonsils, ensuring your body can fully produce antibodies and fight off infections as normal.
Tonsillectomy at Charlottenlund Private Hospital
At Charlottenlund Privathospital, tonsil removals are performed by highly experienced ear, nose, and throat specialists. We perform a high volume of tonsil surgeries annually, welcoming both public patients (through our tender agreement with the Capital Region of Denmark / Region Hovedstaden) and patients utilizing private health insurance or paying out-of-pocket.
Every treatment plan is fully individualized, and our dedicated anesthesiology and recovery teams are highly experienced in caring for both children and adults.
Sources:
- Danish Society of Otorhinolaryngology (DSOHH): NKR for tonsillectomy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tonsil removal (tonsillectomy)?
An operation in which the tonsils are completely removed, typically for repeated sore throats, tonsil plugs or very large tonsils. It is performed under full anesthesia.
When should the tonsils be removed?
In the case of repeated sore throats (usually at least five in one year or three per year for two years), chronic inflammation with tonsil plugs or very large tonsils that obstruct breathing. This is always a medical assessment.
What are tonsil plugs?
Small clumps of bacteria and cells in the grooves of the tonsils that can cause bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth. For recurring tonsil plugs with chronic irritation, removing the tonsils can help.
How long does the surgery take?
The procedure itself typically takes 30-45 minutes and is performed under full anesthesia.
How long does it take to recover?
Neck pain typically lasts up to 10-14 days, and most people can resume work or school after about 10-14 days.
Does having your tonsils removed weaken your immune system?
No. The tonsils only make up a small part of the throat's immune system, and the body can still produce antibodies without them.
Can tonsils grow back?
With a complete removal (tonsillectomy), the entire tonsil is removed, so they usually do not grow back. In rare cases, this can be done with partial removal (reduction).
Are there any risks with the surgery?
As with all surgeries, there is a small risk of complications, including bleeding for up to two weeks after the procedure. You will be thoroughly informed about precautions on the day of surgery.
Do I need a referral?
It is not a requirement to have a referral to book an appointment. For health insurance, the conditions should be checked, as some companies require a referral as a condition of coverage.
Read also about
- Reduction of tonsils
- Removal of pediatric polyps