Tonsils are surgically removed to treat tonsillitis. The surgery, called a tonsillectomy, is usually performed when the patient suffers from tonsil infection. The surgery is also very important in case the patient suffers from breathing problems because of an enlarged tonsil. The post-surgery recovery period is generally one week, although surgeons may recommend a two-week rest.
Foods Recommended by Surgeons Post-Tonsillectomy
Doctors advise that patients only eat foods that are easy to swallow. After surgery, your surgeon will give you specific instructions on the preferred diet, generally bland and soft foods are best. They also advise plenty of fluids, including water and low-sugar soft drinks. Here’s a list of recommended foods after a tonsil surgery:
- Yogurt
- Pudding
- Custard
- Jell-O
- Egg whites
- Oatmeal
- Boiled and mashed potatoes
- Thin slices of cheese
- Squash
- Chicken or tuna salad
- Sauce (not the spicy ones. You can have apple sauce)
- Popsicle or ice cream
Post-tonsillectomy, patients should consume plenty of water to ensure quick healing. Surgeons recommend at least 4 oz. of liquids after every hour. You can have apple juice (pasteurized), or Kool-Aid, but please avoid citrus juices, such as pineapple, orange and grapefruit as they can be very irritating and will increase pain. Keeping yourself hydrated is very important because dehydration delays healing and increases throat pain.
Foods to Avoid After a Tonsillectomy Operation
While there are plenty of fluid types and soft foods to eat after a tonsillectomy, there are certain foods that need to be avoided. According to Dr. D. Thornley of the Huronia District Hospital in Ontario, patients who have undergone a tonsillectomy operation should completely avoid carbonated sodas or any fruit juices that have citric content. Consuming them may cause irritation and pain as the area where the surgery was performed is still very sensitive to anything strong or spicy.
Usually, ice-cream is recommended by surgeons, but patients should avoid eating any dairy products because it can trigger side-effects if consumed after medications. You can have clear liquids like apple juice, but please avoid tomato juice.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Sources
- Tonsillectomy – Mayo Clinic
- Patient Instructions – Post Operative Instructions for Tonsillectomy – Associates in Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery
- Adult Tonsillectomy – UVHealth.org
