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Tonsillectomy  and/or
Adenoidectomy

Tonsil & Adenoid Surgery at The Breathe Institute

At The Breathe Institute, tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are not treated as standard surgeries—they are precision-guided procedures, thoughtfully tailored to restore nasal and oral airflow, improve sleep quality, and support long-term wellness.

 

What Are Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy?

Dr. Soroush Zaghi performs partial tonsillectomy (~90% removal) to address recurrent infections (such as strep throat), enlarged tonsils that obstruct breathing or swallowing, and obstructive sleep apnea. Adenoidectomy removes lymphatic tissue located behind the nose, often to relieve nasal blockage, chronic ear infections, or sleep-disordered breathing—especially in children.

 

A Concierge-Level, Airway-Centered Approach

Dr. Zaghi’s method is guided by detailed in-office assessments and Cone Beam CT imaging, allowing for a highly customized surgical plan. He preserves a small portion of tonsil tissue to maintain immune function while significantly enhancing airway space. His approach is minimally disruptive for children and more comprehensive for teens, adults, or those with more severe obstruction. When appropriate, he also performs remodeling of the pharynx, soft palate, and uvula to optimize the pharyngeal airway and further improve breathing. All procedures are performed at top-tier surgical centers with specialized anesthesiology teams, particularly for pediatric and airway-sensitive cases. Our team provides full-spectrum, concierge-level coordination and care before, during, and after surgery.

 

Whole-Patient Care Beyond the Operating Room

Recovery is supported through education, close follow-up, and personalized healing protocols. To minimize the need for antibiotics, we emphasize anti-inflammatory nutrition, gentle movement, and the use of coblation technology to minimize tissue trauma. Patients are encouraged to stay well-hydrated and avoid inflammatory foods like dairy, gluten, sugar, and processed items. Instead, choose nutrient-dense, soft foods—such as smoothies, bone broth, eggs, and vegetables—to support tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and maintain energy during recovery.

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Recovery Timeline:

  • Recovery typically takes 1–2 weeks (you may need to take time off from work or school).

  • Pain usually peaks between days 5–10, then gradually improves.

  • Most children feel significantly better by week 2.

  • Full recovery may take 3–4 weeks, especially if oral hygiene and nutrition are poor.

 

Pain Management:

  • Take Tylenol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen every 6 hours, alternating as needed for pain relief. For example, you can take Tylenol first, then ibuprofen 3 hours later, continuing to alternate every 3 hours so that you're taking each medication every 6 hours.

  • Avoid narcotic medications unless specifically prescribed.

  • If prescribed, Oxycodone or Percocet (Acetaminophen & Oxycodone) may be used in rare cases.

  • Comfort measures:

    • Apply ice packs to the neck

    • Encourage cold, soft foods

    • Use Spry mouth spray before meals to soothe the throat, stimulate appetite, and help prevent dryness. Keeping the mouth moist can support comfort and healing, especially during recovery.

Tonsillectomy and/or
Adenoidectomy

X-rays

Tonsillectomy  and/or
Adenoidectomy

Oral Care & Hygiene:

  • Oral hygiene is essential for reducing pain, inflammation, and infection risk.

  • Rinse with Spry mouthwash after meals (2–4 times daily).

  • Brush teeth at least twice per day.

  • Use a syringe for rinsing if gargling mouthwash is too difficult.

  • Poor hygiene may result in:

    • Increased pain or swelling

    • Difficulty swallowing

    • Higher risk of bleeding or need for IV hydration

 

Nasal Care (If Nasal Surgery Was Performed):

  • Use Xlear or Saline Nasal spray 2–4 times per day.

  • Continue nasal spray for 1–2 weeks or as directed.

 

Hydration & Nutrition:

  • Hydration is critical — ensure adequate fluid intake.

  • If swallowing is painful, encourage the child to chug a cold 8 oz glass of water to soothe the throat and trigger swallowing.

  • Offer cold, soft, high-fat/protein foods such as: Eggs, Pasta, Ground meats, Smoothies, Dense soups, Bone Broth

  • Avoid relying solely on juice, Jell-O, or popsicles.

  • Prevent dehydration, which increases complication risk.

 

Physical Activity:

  • Avoid prolonged bed rest; encourage 30+ minutes of light activity daily.

  • No strenuous exercise or sports until cleared.

  • Avoid high-fall-risk activities: no bikes, trampolines, or rough play.

 

Fever Levels & What to Do:

  • Below 100.4°F (38°C): No medication needed—just rest and fluids; monitor for changes.

  • 100.4°F – 102°F (38–38.9°C): Give Tylenol or ibuprofen and encourage fluids and light clothing.

  • 102°F – 103.9°F (38.9–39.9°C): Alternate Tylenol and ibuprofen every 3 hours, use cool compresses, and keep hydrated.

  • 104°F (40°C) or higher: Give medication immediately, use cooling measures, and call your doctor or go to urgent care.

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If a fever develops from inactivity, try stretching your neck and shoulders, taking

​deep breaths, and walking to help expand the lungs.

 

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Showering:

  • Showering is permitted at any time post-op.

  • Days 1–2: Use caution due to possible dizziness; supervise if needed.

 

Signs of Bleeding or Infection:

  • Mild bleeding from the mouth or nose may occur and typically resolves within 30 minutes.

If bleeding occurs:

  • Take a photo or video and send to Dr. Zaghi

  • If heavy or persistent, go to the emergency department

  • Potential treatments:

    • Afrin spray

    • Rarely, surgical re-cauterization

    • Nebulized tranexamic acid

  • Monitor for infection signs:

    • Worsening pain

    • Fever

    • Swelling

    • Foul odor

 

Follow-Up Appointments:

  • 1–2 week post-op visit: Assess healing and oral hygiene.

  • 2-month post-op visit: Review airway function and overall recovery​

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If you have any concerns, please contact our office, or reach out to Dr. Zaghi

using the information provided below. For emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

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