Tonsillectomy in Manhattan Beach: Modern Throat Surgery

Tonsil Surgery (Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy)

Tonsil surgery removes the tonsils and, when needed, the adenoids (tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy). It is commonly performed in children and can also be highly beneficial for adults. The goals are to reduce infections, improve breathing and sleep, and relieve symptoms such as painful swallowing and potential for abscess formation.

Quick facts

Most patients go home the same day. Expect a sore throat and ear pain (referred pain) during recovery. Plan for soft foods and plenty of fluids. Typical recovery is about 10–14 days, with most returning to work or school within two weeks.

Who is a good candidate?

• Recurrent tonsil infections or tonsillitis (multiple episodes per year despite medical care)

• Obstructive sleep-disordered breathing or sleep apnea due to enlarged tonsils/adenoids (snoring, pauses in breathing, restless sleep)

• Trouble swallowing or a constant feeling of throat blockage from large tonsils

• History of peritonsillar abscess (a severe tonsil infection)

• Children with frequent ear infections or fluid behind the eardrum related to enlarged adenoids and Eustachian tube blockage

Benefits you may notice

• Fewer throat infections and antibiotic courses

• Easier breathing and better sleep quality; reduced snoring in appropriate patients

• Improved swallowing comfort

• Relief from chronic bad breath related to cryptic tonsils/tonsil stones

• Fewer missed school or work days due to throat infections

• In children, improved nasal breathing and fewer ear problems when adenoids are also removed

How the procedure works

Tonsillectomy (and adenoidectomy when needed) is performed under general anesthesia. The surgery is done through the mouth—there are no external incisions. The adenoids sit high in the throat behind the nose and are also removed through the mouth when indicated. Most procedures take under an hour, and patients typically go home the same day with detailed recovery instructions.

Recovery timeline at a glance

1. 1

   Days 0–2: Sore throat and ear pain are common. Focus on hydration, pain control, and rest.

2. 2

   Days 3–7: Pain may peak. A white/yellow healing coating in the throat is normal. Keep fluids and soft foods going.

3. 3

   Days 7–10: Scabs begin to loosen; mild blood-tinged saliva can occur. Avoid strenuous activity.

4. 4

   Days 10–14: Most patients are ready to return to school or work once pain is controlled and eating/drinking is comfortable.

Comfort, diet, and activity tips

• Hydrate: Sip water, ice chips, or electrolyte drinks frequently.

• Soft foods: Yogurt, smoothies (no seeds), pudding, eggs, mashed potatoes, pasta. Avoid sharp, spicy, very hot, or acidic foods.

• Pain control: Use medications as directed. Avoid aspirin unless your clinician approves.

• Humidify: A cool-mist humidifier can soothe the throat.

• Mouth care: Gentle toothbrushing is okay; avoid gargling vigorously early on.

• Rest and activity: Walk around the house, but avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and travel to remote areas for two weeks.

• No smoking or vaping: These slow healing and increase bleeding risk.

When to contact us or seek urgent care

• Bright red bleeding from the mouth or nose, or spitting up more than a few teaspoons of blood

• Signs of dehydration: very dark urine, no urination for 8–12 hours, dizziness

• Fever higher than 101–102°F (38.3–38.9°C) that persists despite medication

• Trouble breathing, severe vomiting, or uncontrolled pain

• Inability to keep fluids down

Adenoids, ear infections, and sleep in children

Adenoid tissue sits at the back of the nose near the openings of the Eustachian tubes, which ventilate the middle ear. When enlarged or frequently infected, adenoids can block normal ear drainage, contribute to fluid buildup, and worsen sleep-disordered breathing. Removing the adenoids during tonsil surgery can improve nasal airflow, reduce snoring, and help decrease ear infections in appropriate pediatric patients.

Alternatives and adjuncts

• Watchful waiting for mild, infrequent infections

• Medical therapy when appropriate: antibiotics for acute infections; nasal steroid sprays and saline for nasal congestion; allergy management; reflux management

• Tonsil stone measures: gentle oral hygiene, water flosser on low setting, and mouth rinses.

• Sleep apnea care: healthy weight, nasal therapy, or CPAP when indicated

Frequently asked questions

• Is ear pain after surgery an ear infection? No—this is common "referred pain" from the throat and usually improves as healing progresses.

• Will I have stitches or scars? No external incisions are used; the area heals on its own.

• How long until I can exercise? Avoid strenuous activity for about two weeks, or as directed by Dr. Egan.

• Is bad breath after surgery normal? Yes—temporary bad breath is common during healing and typically resolves within 1–2 weeks.

• What should I eat? Focus on cool, soft foods and plenty of liquids; gradually return to a regular diet as comfort allows.

Why choose Dr. Kristin Egan

Dr. Kristin Egan is dual board-certified in Otolaryngology (ENT) and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Since 2011, she has cared for pediatric and adult patients in the South Bay, helping them breathe, sleep, and feel better with evidence-based treatments and attentive, personalized care.

Locations and scheduling

ENT and tonsil care are available at our Manhattan Beach and Torrance office, serving Manhattan Beach, Torrance, and the surrounding Beach Cities. Ready to discuss tonsil surgery for you or your child? Contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Egan.