April 28, 2008

Normal Post-Tonsillectomy Appearance


Often, patients become disturbed with the way their throat looks after a tonsillectomy. However, many of the concerns are unfounded and the appearance though disturbing, is actually normal. The white plaques where the tonsils used to be are actually scabs. Just like a scab on a cut elbow turns white after taking a shower or swimming, the scabs in the throat/mouth turn white from the saliva.

Also, the uvula is swollen (3-4X bigger than usual) which also is normal and will improve over the weeks. Hopefully, the NORMAL pictures shown here will reassure patients who are concerned with their throat appearance after tonsillectomy.

These particular pictures were taken 1-7 days after tonsillectomy.

To see pictures of what abnormal bleeding after tonsillectomy looks like, click here.





Fauquier blog
Fauquier ENT

Dr. Christopher Chang is a private practice otolaryngology, head & neck surgeon specializing in the treatment of problems related to the ear, nose, and throat. Located in Warrenton, VA about 45 minutes west of Washington DC, he also provides inhalant allergy testing/treatment, hearing tests, and dispenses hearing aids.

4 comments:

Anthony@Perlengkapan Bayi said...

It has taken me ages to discover your site. Finally. This is just the information I was looking for.

Anonymous said...

thanks for the pictures they are really helpful. I was going to see my doctor as i thought i might have thrush or something in my throat, Im glad to know its just the scabs

Anonymous said...

Is it normal to keep choking every time you fall asleep? My Uvula seems to block my throat. :(

Unknown said...

Same problem here. got my tonsils removed 2 days ago. keep having this choking feeling eversince. uvula is so big it's touching my epiglottis. weird feeling. hope it gets better


Banner Map

Pediatric Neck Masses

Adult Neck Mass Workup