Tonsillitis is very common in children and, in most cases, it clears up on its own with rest, fluids and a little care at home.
But for some children, the infections keep coming back or cause problems that make life more difficult. In these situations, doctors may recommend removing the tonsils in a procedure called a tonsillectomy.
Knowing when surgery might be considered and what it involves can help you feel reassured and confident about the next steps in your child’s care.
What is a tonsillectomy?
A tonsillectomy is an operation to remove the tonsils, which are two small glands that sit at the back of the throat on the sides.
In younger children, tonsils play a role in fighting off infections, but as your child grows, their immune system becomes stronger and less reliant on them.
Taking the tonsils out doesn’t mean your child will catch more coughs and colds. Instead, it can bring real relief if recurrent tonsillitis or other problems are affecting their wellbeing, helping them feel healthier and more comfortable day to day.
When is a tonsillectomy recommended?
Every child is different, so doctors will look at the bigger picture before recommending surgery. It’s not a decision taken lightly, but in some situations, removing the tonsils can make a big difference to a child’s health and quality of life.
The most common reasons include:
- Frequent tonsillitis – if a child experiences several episodes of tonsillitis each year, especially if these are severe or disrupt school attendance and family life, surgery may be advised
- Sleep problems – enlarged tonsils can cause obstructive sleep apnoea, where the airway becomes blocked during sleep. This can lead to snoring, disturbed sleep, daytime tiredness and even behavioural or concentration issues. Removing the tonsils (often along with the adenoids) can help children sleep and breathe more easily
- Recurrent quinsy (peritonsillar abscess) – this painful complication is a medical emergency, and causes pus to collect around the tonsil. If it happens more than once, removing the tonsils may prevent it from returning
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing – very large tonsils can make it uncomfortable for a child to swallow food or breathe easily. A tonsillectomy is usually recommended if a child is choking on their food due to large tonsils. In these cases, surgery can relieve the blockage and help them eat and breathe more comfortably
How is the decision made?
A tonsillectomy is not suggested after just one or two sore throats. Ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists take time to look at how often your child is unwell, how severe the infections are, and whether they are affecting everyday life.
Your child might be recommended a tonsillectomy if they have:
- At least seven episodes of tonsillitis in one year
- At least five episodes of tonsillitis each year for two consecutive years
- At least three episodes of tonsillitis a year for three consecutive years
These are guidelines (rather than rules), and specialists assess each child individually before recommending surgery. Doctors also consider whether the infections have been particularly severe or caused complications, such as needing hospital treatment. This careful approach means surgery is only recommended when it is likely to bring real benefits.
What does the surgery involve?
A tonsillectomy is done under general anaesthetic, so your child will be asleep and won’t feel anything during the operation. The procedure itself usually takes less than an hour, and most children are able to go home the same day.
Recovery takes about one to two weeks. During this time, your child’s throat will feel sore, so they will need rest, plenty of fluids and regular pain relief. Simple measures like offering softer foods and keeping them well-hydrated can make recovery more comfortable.
While all operations carry some risk, tonsillectomy is a very common and safe procedure. The main risks are bleeding during recovery and, less often, infection. Your surgeon will explain these risks in detail and answer any questions before surgery, so you feel confident and reassured about the decision.
Speak with Mr Wale Olarinde about paediatric tonsillectomies
If your child is struggling with frequent tonsillitis, sleep difficulties or other problems caused by enlarged tonsils, it may be time to seek expert advice. Mr Wale Olarinde, an experienced ENT specialist at ENT Sheffield, can carefully assess your child’s situation and talk through whether a tonsillectomy could help.
Book a consultation today to ensure your child receives the care they need for better long-term health and wellbeing.