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Is Tonsil Surgery Painful?

  • ENT
  • October 15, 2025

Tonsils are two over-shaped pads of tissue that are located at the back of a person’s throat. The surgery for tonsils, known as tonsillectomy, is a very common procedure that is used to remove the tonsils. People might often need to undergo this procedure because of recurring infections of the throat, and other problems such as sleep apnea and breathing problems. However, people might often underestimate whether this procedure is painful or not. In this article, we will discuss in detail what goes on behind the experience, recovery, and other aspects of tonsil surgery.

What is Tonsil Surgery?

Tonsillectomy, or tonsil removal surgery​, is performed under general anaesthesia, which indicates that the patient is completely asleep, free from consciousness, so they don’t feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. An experienced surgeon removes the tonsils using one of the various techniques available, such as cold knife 

dissection, electrocautery, and several laser-assisted methods. The entire process takes no more than 30 to 45 minutes and is often an OPD procedure, which means that the person can go home the same day after the procedure.

What to expect after the surgery?

It is important for the patient to understand that while the tonsil surgery in itself is painless, there might be some sort of discomfort or pain that may arise after the procedure. The intensity of pain may vary from patient to patient. Children usually recover faster. Adults may experience more discomfort during a prolonged period. During this period, certain effects such as a sore throat, can be felt for around 7 to 10 days. Ear pain and Stiffness in the jaw or neck can also be felt in mild intensity. However, patients might be relieved to know that with modern advancements in technology, tonsillectomy has now become a procedure that involves effective pain management and faster and easier recovery.

Pain Management after the Surgery

In order to manage the pain after tonsil surgery in Mohali during the recovery process, the doctors might provide medications that help the patient by controlling the pain and swelling. 

  1. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen might be prescribed to the patient.
  2. Cold fluids and soft foods such as ice cream, yogurt, and soup help to soothe the throat.
  3. Proper hydration and drinking plenty of fluids help prevent dryness and make healing faster.

How to ensure a smooth recovery?

  1. Taking Rest: It is extremely important for the body to get enough time to heal. Therefore, the patient should avoid tiring activities for at least a week.
  2. Hydration: The patient should keep shipping cold water or ice chips frequently.
  3. Following the doctor’s advice: It is extremely important for the patient to take their medications on time and attend the follow-up appointments.
  4. Oral Hygiene: In order to ensure a smoother recovery, patients should ensure good hygiene and rinse their mouth gently to prevent infection.

While mild pain and discomfort can be considered normal during the recovery period, the patient should immediately contact their doctor in case of excessive bleeding, constant high fever, difficulty in breathing, and dehydration due to inability to swallow liquids. The throat heals within two weeks after the surgery, and the patients can return to a normal, regular diet and routine.

If you are looking for the Best ENT Surgeon in Mohali, or the Best ENT Doctor near me, Sohana Hospital might just be the right option for you. Sohana Hospital Mohali, is home to the world’s most advanced technology and North India’s most trusted and experienced ENT surgeons who provide the most holistic ENT care. Book your appointment today!