Adult tonsillectomy

One granddaughter had to have a tonsillectomy last year, it was not a picnic, taking 4 months to settle down. I did have mine done aged 6, my main recollection is lots of ice cream which made it all more bearable.

I had mine out when I was 3, along with my Adenoids, needless to say I’ve had years of sore throats and heavy colds to cope with ever since.

MissOops had to wait until she was 16, she’d had years of time off school with Tonsilitis.

There doesn’t seem to be a good time and I think it’s much more of a major op than we all think.

My 6 year old Grandson had his tonsils out earlier this year and his best friend at school went in only a few months later for a tonsillectomy. Luckily it's a much more minor op at their age. The criteria is stricter now as it was for me but as we were all having multiple attacks per year with 10 days of antibiotics each time so qualified. I was on the waiting list for 4 years.

I think some children do have tonsillectomies now, the current NICE guidance includes guidance for children.
The procedure was over-performed in the 60's and 70's. The criteria for severity of symptoms to justify an op are quite strict.

I don’t think the NHS takes out children’s tonsils now so those whose lives are badly impacted by recurrent tonsillitis will all have to wait until they’re adults.

My MiL had a tonsillectomy at 55. She suddenly discovered there were 12 months in the year, not 10 and two in bed too ill to function.

My grandson had it done when he was just over 21 and has not had any of the illnesses he had been having prior It was a nasty recovery but well worth it

Gskd you are home and recovering. I had a tonsillectomy when quite young - 17. I can still remember the pain afterwards , however I am now in my 7Os and have not had a sore throat since!! It was like a miracle for me , I had spent most of my childhood and early teens feeling grim!! You will be fine and I feel sure you will not regret the surgery. Good luck. Recurrent tonsillitis is very debilitating I wish you well. 💐