In the immediate post-operative recovery period, a liquid diet should be maintained. Patients may feel temporarily drowsy and nauseated from the anesthesia.
Diet
It is essential that fluids are increased. Remember, ice-cream and popsicles count as fluids. When liquids are tolerated satisfactorily, the diet may be advanced to a soft diet. Avoid hot spicy or sharp foods (like chips and pretzels). Citric juices like orange may cause discomfort. Tomato based pasta sauces may also cause discomfort. Dairy products are allowed. Sherbet, ice-cream and popsicles are often soothing and a good source of liquid intake. It is not uncommon for patients to loose weight after a tonsillectomy. This weight is usually gained back during the second or third post-operative week.
Fever
A low-grade fever (101° orally or 102° rectally) is common during the first several days after the operation. It is often associated with inadequate fluid intake and should be treated by increasing fluids. Should the fever persist, or rise above 102°, please call the office or physician on call.
Pain
Expect some throat and ear discomfort, sometimes lasting 7 to 14 days after a tonsillectomy. Please use the prescribed pain medication as directed by Dr. Bankaci. You may use liquid Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) dosed according to the patient's weight and age every six hours or as needed in between prescription pain medication. Usually the third thru fifth post-operative days are the worst in terms of pain. The more fluids your child drinks, the more it helps the healing process and pain level. If pain is not relieved, please contact Dr. Bankaci. Please DO NOT USE ASPIRIN. Aspirin and Aspirin containing products can increase the chances of bleeding during.
Bleeding
Watch for post-operative bleeding. Bleeding is the most common complication after a tonsillectomy. The most common times for bleeding are initial 24 hours and 7 to 10 days after surgery. Often, bleeding stops spontaneously or by gargling gently with ice water. If these measures do not control bleeding, or if you are concerned at all, please call Dr. Bankaci or go to the nearest Emergency Room.
Bad Breath
It is very common for patients to develop bad breath after a tonsillectomy. This is not a sign of infection. It is part of the body's normal healing process. The bad breath can last 7 to 14 days.
White Scabs in the Back of the Throat
It is not a sign of infection. This is part of the normal healing procss after a tonsillectomy.
Activity
Limit physical activity for the first two weeks. Your child should work on fluid intake and rest. Most children can return to school and resume normal activities after their post-operative evaluation by Dr. Bankaci. Remember however "Every body is different". The staff would be happy to provide an excuse for time missed from school and/or work.
Follow-up
If you have any further questions please contact Dr. Bankaci's office at (724) 547-4575 or (724) 832-9688.
A post-operative check-up should be scheduled TWO WEEKS after surgery.