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POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS - TONSILLECTOMY - ADULT

ACTIVITY

You should remain at home for the first ten days.  You may be up and about, shower, and climb stairs, but refrain from vigorous physical activity.

DIET

A well-balanced nutritious diet is essential for proper healing!  One has the general tendency to restrict the diet to liquid or soft foods, but regular food is allowed.  Eggs, cereal, toast, sandwiches, meats, vegetables (cooked) and fruits should be eaten by the third day after surgery.

MEDICATION

You will receive a prescription for pain medication and an antibiotic after surgery.  Aspirin (Aspergum) is not allowed in any form.

FEVER

A low grade infection of the tonsillar area commonly occurs after surgery.  Your pain medication contains acetaminophen (Tylenol) to decrease the fever.  Drink more fluids while the fever is present.  The fever may last 4 - 5 days.

BLEEDING

Your doctor should be called for instructions at any time, night or day, if bleeding occurs.  Dial (304) 342-0124 and designate the call as an emergency.  If you call and cannot reach your doctor, go to the hospital where the operation was performed if you think bleeding is excessive or an emergency exists.

OFFICE VISIT (Post-op)

You will be given an appointment card on discharge.

RETURN TO WORK

Your doctor will advise you about returning to work or regular activities.  Please ask the nurse for a AReturn to Work@ slip at your post-op visit.  

REMEMBER

<                    Bleeding is most common the 1^st day or the 5^th - 7^th day.
<                    1 in 50 adults may have post-operative bleeding.
<                    Ear pain is common and is referred from the throat.
<                    The tongue may be sore and slightly swollen after surgery.
<                    Chewing gum is allowed and will help the throat soreness.