Post Op Care for Tonsillectomy

1. Begin with cool, semi-liquid soft diet, then soft diet for this evening’s meal. Continue on soft diet for 2 full weeks.
2. Ear pain is common for up to 10 days after surgery. Continue to give the pain medication as prescribed every 4 hours for the first 48 hours, then begin to wean to over-the-counter Tylenol, using as directed by manufacturer. It is best to use the over-the-counter medications during the day, and the narcotic medications in the evening.
3. DO NOT USE over-the-counter MOTRIN, ASPIRIN, or ADVIL. These increase the risk of bleeding.
4. Avoid foods that are spicy or coarse, like potato chips, pizza, etc.
5. You will be given a post-operative appointment for patient follow up. It is important you keep this appointment for the exam to assure proper healing.
6. Feel free to contact our office Monday – Friday, 9-5, with any non-emergency questions, and a nurse can assist you.

When to call the office

Our emergency after hours numbers are 770-345-6600 or 770-429-2553

1. You should contact our office if the patient experiences ANY BRIGHT RED BLEEDING!
   • Have the patient gargle ice water to slow the bleeding.
   • Bleeding may occur up to 2 weeks after surgery. Remain on the soft diet and avoid strenuous
     activities such as bending, lifting, running, etc.
2. You should call our office if the patient develops a FEVER GREATER THAN 101.0 after surgery.
   • If the patient develops a low-grade fever you, you may give children’s Tylenol, or adult as
     appropriate, using as directed from the manufacturer.
   • Dehydration can also cause an increase in body temperature. PUSH FLUIDS.
3. You should contact our office if the patient has had no fluids in 6 hours and has a significant decrease in fluid output. It is very important to encourage fluids to prevent dehydration.