What is a Tonsillectomy and When is it Needed?

Tonsils are an essential part of the immune system. The tonsils are made of lymphatic tissue, which contains white blood cells to help us fight infections caused by germs. Tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils become infected by germs, making them red, swollen, and painful. For individuals with frequent tonsillitis or large tonsils that cause nighttime breathing difficulties, a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils, called a tonsillectomy, may be recommended. This surgery usually takes 30–60 min and can prevent future tonsil infections or nighttime breathing problems. Tonsillectomy surgery is one of the most common surgeries performed in children and most people have a successful recovery. These recoveries are made better by being able to eat soft foods like ice cream!