Dr. William B. Clark discusses the tonsillectomy procedure, which involves the surgical removal of the tonsils under general anesthesia to treat chronic infections or as a remedy for sleep apnea. The surgery is typically performed using a scalpel, but alternative methods may be employed, and most patients recover in one to two weeks with appropriate post-operative care. Patients are advised to consume soft foods and cool liquids to alleviate throat pain during recovery.

1. TONSILLECTOMY - WHAT A PATIENT CAN
EXPECT
Dr. William B. Clark

2. INTRODUCTION
 Head and neck surgeon Dr. William B. Clark owns and
operates ENT Associates of Northwest Florida, where he
leads a skilled team of professionals. Dr. William B. Clark
performs a variety of ear, nose, and throat procedures,
such as tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies.
As its name indicates, a tonsillectomy removes the tonsils
from their natural position at the back of the throat. These
glands play a role in the body's infection response, though
they may be prone to infections themselves. A surgeon
may recommend a tonsillectomy as a treatment for
chronic presentations of these infections, though the
procedure can also serve to open the throat of patients
who suffer from sleep apnea or severe snoring.

3. TONSILLECTOMY
 A surgeon performs this procedure while the patient is
under general anesthesia so that he or she is
unconscious and insensible to pain throughout the
procedure. The procedure itself most often involves the
removal of the tonsil glands by way of a traditional
scalpel. However, some cases may prompt a surgeon to
recommend cauterization of the tissue or ultrasonic
vibration to break up the tonsils.
Most patients recover fully from the surgery in one to two
weeks. In the meantime, soft foods and cool liquids can
help to soothe throat pain. The patient may also receive a
prescription for medication to address discomfort in the
throat as well as in the jaw, ears, or neck.