Adult Tonsillectomy Recovery Time – a Poll
Tonsillectomy recovery time is unique to each individual- sure. We know that recovery time for adults is longer, and maybe harder, than tonsillectomy recovery time for children. I remember my own son bouncing back in less than a week! My own experience taught me that ten days off from a job that required lots of talking was a bit light. I generally advise two weeks. As I’ve said, most employers will let you come back early. That’s easier than asking for more time after the fact. I’ve read the accounts of thousands of tonsillectomy patients- most of them adults. I’ve learned that the time required varies. I wonder though, how many tonsillectomy patients never really post about their experience. Are you one of those quiet ones lying in the weeds? I’d like to get a better feel for the average adult tonsillectomy recovery time. Please take a moment and share your own experience in recovering from tonsillectomy surgery. You can help us all!
So let me put this out as an informal survey for people who have been through it, to help those planning a tonsillectomy. (It’s also one of the most commonly researched questions by adults considering tonsillectomy.) It’s my hope that we can amass a good sampling of experiences to help guide would-be adult tonsillectomy patients as they plan their family, work, and other obligations,
What is the average recovery time for tonsillectomy in adults? Read my Summary: Tonsillectomy Recovery Time Summary
So, what is it? What is your recommended adult tonsillectomy recovery time?
Join the discussion
-Greg My short bio
Before you schedule an appointment to have your tonsils removed, do a little research.
I would def take 2 weeks bare minimum!! I had mine done at 29 and I know it took me a good 3 weeks to feel half way decent then a while longer to get myself eating normal again. Best thing for me was those orange sherbert push ups! I lived off of them for a month I bet. LOL! Also use a cold compress on the neck. That helped me some. One thing that did bother me that I didn’t expect was I was a little depressed afterwards and the doctor told me that was normal from the surgery and meds. So stay positive if that happens to you. Wasn’t horrible but it was there. Just DON’T RUSH IT!
I’m 19 and got mine out 5 days ago and returned to work this morning. I’m pretty weak from not eating so I can’t do much heavy lifting or walking, but everything seems fine. Going back to work is definitely doable, I’m just more groggy than usual and can’t talk very much. If I were you I would milk the time off more, but if you need to get back to work, go for it.
Hi Greg,
I had my tonsils out in Feb of this year and am 39. My doctor said that he recommends taking 3 weeks. He said 2 weeks was the “absolute minimum” he would permit for being off. His rationale for 3 weeks was to use the last week to begin regaining energy, eating a bit more, and get used to a daily routine. Even after 3 weeks I was tired, but that last week was absolutely a blessing!
The doc said it would be 2 to 3 months before I felt completely healed, and he was pretty on target. Although, the other aspects of recovery were minimal by comparison and didn’t warrant not returning to work.
Kelly
Thanks Kelly. Nice to hear from you!
I am 58, I had my tonsils taken out on June 5th. This is my 11th day post op and while I still have some moderate pain when I swallow, I feel the worst is over. I am eating regular food but keeping it soft. I had Beef Stew tonight and it went down great.
Thank you everyone for sharing your information. It will help me in taking care of myself. Marilyn, I am sorry to hear about your situation and the stitches.
I am 55 and I had tonsillectomy and turbinate reduction done on May 23, 2012. I am now on day 12 and still have a lot of white scab and it really pains, especially in my ears when I wait for 4 hours to take my meds. When is the ear pain all gone? Do I have to wait for the white scabs to be all gone before the pain fully goes away? How long is this really?
Thank you.