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 was wondering why they leave these big holes in your throat after a tonsillectomy, and when will they close up? I am at day 12 and the holes are still there. Help? they won’t be there forever right?
I was actually wondering the exact same thing. Can someone who knows this respond?
Thanks
Yes, it takes a while- up to six months, but the area fills in and firms up again.
I am a 20 yr old female who got my tonsils removed exactly a week ago. I slept constantly for the first two days and only woke up to take medicine. Day three, I was so hungry that I managed to eat a Whataburger meal. I thought I was in for an easy recovery until day 5 hit. That was my worst day (so far…) and I even woke up crying in the middle of the night. Day 6 was basically the same. I slept with ice packs all around my neck and when I woke up on day 7, I actually felt better. I am still in a lot of pain when I swallow and my ears are constantly on fire, but it’s the first time I can see the light at the end of the tunnel! I even went most of the day without pain meds!
I’m hoping I continue to improve on day 8. Very thankful I came across this website… Like some other “tonsillectomy victims”, I didn’t have a plan of action because I didn’t know how painful this would be. Popsicles, ice chips, painkillers, and scrambled eggs have come to be my best friends! When I got really hungry a few days ago, I threw some cheese on a piece of bread, folded it in half, and microwaved it. If you can eat it while it’s still warm and soft it doesn’t hurt at all!
Good luck to everyone recovering…. We can make it!!
I’m 31 and on Day #9 of recovery from tonsils and adenoids removed. Mine were taken due to repeated strep and then finally got 105 fever and became septic, emergency surgery was performed and out they came both with an absess on them. I’ve had 3 kids, a hysterectomy and thyroidectomy and I’m not gonna lie. This “minor” surgery had my flat on my back in excruciating pain. I would take all of my other surgeries combined than deal with the pain I’ve been in this past week and a half. Still can’t eat besides soft foods. Tried 1/4 of a pancake, hurt like heck. Down 17 pnds. Been to the hospital once already for morphine and fluids. Just not a fun process at all. When will I see light at the end of the tunnel?
I did not research this procedure and didn’t have to much of a game plan other than popcicles and chicken noodle soup. The pain seemed to shift gears every other day. Worst sustained pain I’ve ever experienced. I thought I was turning the corner around day 6, so I decided to hit the driving range, BIG mistake. The next day I stayed in bed and popped percocets like tic tacs. My doctor did not tell me about any of the tips I’ve learned about on this site. The major pain finally broke on day 10, however whenever I awake after a long sleep the pain is still intense. The issue I’m having now is my sense of taste is jacked up. Nothing taste the same, especially sweets. The first bite is somewhat normal, but the more I eat the funnier the taste becomes. I am on day 12 hoping my sense of taste returns.
I just had a tonsillectomy yesterday 8/14/2012. I am 38, so that is kind of old. The tonsil and adnoid removal was due to nasty bouts of strep throat/tonsillitis that I got from the children I work around. I felt weak and agitated., Today, I feel much better. I have been taking my hydocondone every 4 hours and able to drink broth, tea, jello, and mashed potatoes with lots of broth mixed in. I think I am doing OK for now. Don’t know what will come down the road. My throat is tight feeling and sore but managed with cold slurpees and meds.