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Tonsillectomy 
A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils.
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What is a Tonsillectomy?

A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils. The tonsils are two oval-shaped pads of tissue located at the back of the throat, one on each side. The tonsils help to trap bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth and nose. However, sometimes the tonsils can become infected or inflamed, which can cause a variety of problems.

How is a tonsillectomy performed?

A tonsillectomy can be done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. The surgeon will make an incision in the back of the throat and then use a variety of instruments to remove the tonsils. The incision will be closed with sutures or dissolved stitches.

Common practice/results of this service

Tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgeries performed in the United States. Most people who have a tonsillectomy experience significant relief from their symptoms.

Why do people need a tonsillectomy?

People may need a tonsillectomy for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Frequent tonsillitis: Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils. It can cause fever, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and swollen glands in the neck.
  • Obstructive sleep apnoea: Obstructive sleep apnoea is a condition in which the tonsils are so enlarged that they block the airway during sleep. This can cause snoring, gasping, and pauses in breathing during sleep.
  • Chronic sinusitis: Chronic sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses that lasts for more than 12 weeks. It can cause congestion, facial pain, and drainage from the nose.

Who is suitable for a tonsillectomy?

Tonsillectomy is generally safe for most people. However, it may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as severe asthma, heart disease, or bleeding disorders.

Tonsillectomy is commonly performed on children, but it can also be performed on adults.

Benefits of a tonsillectomy

The benefits of a tonsillectomy include:

  • Reduced risk of tonsillitis
  • Improved breathing
  • Reduced risk of obstructive sleep apnoea
  • Improved sinus drainage
  • Improved quality of life

How a tonsillectomy can help with treatment alongside lifestyle changes

A tonsillectomy can help with the treatment of tonsillitis, obstructive sleep apnoea, and chronic sinusitis. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding cigarette smoke and staying hydrated, can also help to reduce the risk of these conditions. However, these lifestyle changes may not be enough to resolve these conditions in some people. A tonsillectomy can be a valuable treatment option for people who have tried lifestyle changes but have not experienced relief from their symptoms.

The Procedure

Tonsillectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. The surgery takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room to be monitored. You will likely be able to go home the same day.

Pre-surgery – getting ready for surgery

Before a tonsillectomy, Mr Khatwa will give you instructions on how to prepare for surgery. These instructions may include:

  • Fasting for a certain number of hours before surgery
  • Taking certain medications
  • Avoiding certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen

Post-surgery – what to do after surgery

After a tonsillectomy, you will need to follow Mr Khatwa's instructions for post-operative care. These instructions may include:

  • Taking pain relievers
  • Drinking plenty of fluids
  • Eating soft foods
  • Avoiding strenuous activity
  • Keeping your head elevated

If you are considering a tonsillectomy, be sure to book an appointment to talk to Mr Khatwa about the risks and benefits of the procedure. Tonsillectomy is a very effective surgery for treating a variety of conditions, but it is important to understand the risks and benefits before making a decision.
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M Moore profile picture
M Moore
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I recently had a septorhinoplasty with Mr Khatwa and couldn’t have been happier with the care I received. From the first consultation he was kind, calm and reassuring, taking time to explain everything clearly and answer my questions. I felt completely at ease and confident in his care throughout. My recovery has gone very well and I’m really pleased with the result. Mr Khatwa is not only an excellent surgeon but also a genuinely warm and caring person. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him.
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Daniel Edwards profile picture
Daniel Edwards
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Was referred to the Nuffield to have a septoplasty. The whole experience was brilliant start to finish and the results have made a huge difference to my day to day life. My surgeon Mr Mohamed Khatwa and his team made me feel comfortable from the start.
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Wyn Stephens profile picture
Wyn Stephens
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Polyp removed and a grommet inserted. The procedure and follow up was faultless .I highly recommend ENT Southwest and Mr Khatwa
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Brad Fisher profile picture
Brad Fisher
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I had a procedure with Mr Khatwa to reduce snoring, service was excellent throughout and was happy with the results
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Tanja Buys profile picture
Tanja Buys
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Tanja Cerff(married name) Dr Khatwa is a kind, caring doctor who saved the day for me! After a long standing issue, Dr Khatwa identified the issue and corrrected it right there and then. He is a wonderful doctor that I highly recommend!
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Alan Chatting profile picture
Alan Chatting
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Excellent kind and effective care!
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Robert Paterson profile picture
Robert Paterson
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After several years of suffering frequent nose bleeds Mr Khatwa managed to solve the issue during my initial consultation with him. He was very kind, calm and a good listener. Highly recommended
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Karen Thompson profile picture
Karen Thompson
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My Surgeon was mr Khatwa he was very friendly and put me at ease I would definitely recommend him to anyone so nice and very professional
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Ashley Miller profile picture
Ashley Miller
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The service provided by Mr Mohamed Khatwa at Nuffield Plymouth was exceptional having been messed about by the NHS for 3 years with multiple other consultants and having had surgery’s cancelled on the day of surgery. From the initial consultation Mr Khatwa explained the full procedure in detail explaining all of the procedure and providing diagrams. The day of surgery came and all went smoothly. Mr Khatwa has a very calm relaxed approach which leads you to feel relaxed and reassured I would recommend his services to anyone that needed it
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Roger Gillett profile picture
Roger Gillett
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Mr Khatwa immediately put me at my ease. With a kind and very professional manner, Mr Khatwa conducted a thorough examination, identified the cause and carried out the procedure there and then. After a follow up visit, all has healed very well. The whole experience has been excellent. We are very privileged to have seen Mr Khatwa who is a true gentleman.
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