Ear, Nose & Throat
Tonsil Removal (Tonsillectomy)
Surgical removal of the tonsils to treat recurrent tonsillitis, sore throats or breathing difficulties.
From £2,800
All-inclusive pricing
Day Case Procedure
Home the same day
ENT Consultant
Specialist surgeon
About This Procedure
What is a Tonsil Removal?
A tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the tonsils — two small glands at the back of the throat. It is most commonly performed for recurrent tonsillitis (repeated bouts of tonsil infection causing severe sore throats), but may also be recommended for obstructive sleep apnoea or enlarged tonsils causing breathing difficulties. The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic. Most patients are discharged the same day. The recovery involves a sore throat for 10-14 days but for patients who have suffered repeated episodes of tonsillitis, the long-term benefit is significant.
Common Question
The recovery sounds painful — is it really that bad?
Tonsillectomy recovery is genuinely uncomfortable for 10-14 days. The throat is sore and swallowing is painful, particularly in the first week. However, with good pain management — including regular paracetamol and ibuprofen — and plenty of fluids and soft foods, most adults manage well at home. The discomfort is temporary and most patients feel it was absolutely worth it.
Wait Time Comparison
Step by Step
What happens on the day?
01
Admission
You arrive having fasted as directed. Your surgeon and anaesthetist confirm the plan.
02
The procedure
Under general anaesthetic, the tonsils are removed through the mouth using a dissection technique or diathermy (heat). No external incisions are made. The procedure takes 20-30 minutes.
03
Recovery and discharge
Most patients recover in hospital for 2-4 hours before going home. You must have someone to drive you. Clear aftercare instructions covering pain management, diet and warning signs to watch for are provided, along with a follow-up appointment.
264
tonsil removals performed
96%
patient satisfaction
1
night average stay
2
weeks recovery
Key Benefits
Why choose private tonsil removal?
→Elimination or major reduction of recurrent tonsillitis
→Improvement in obstructive sleep apnoea symptoms
→Reduced time off work and school due to recurrent illness
→Quicker access than NHS waiting list
→All-inclusive pricing
→Day case in most cases
Pricing
Transparent pricing.
From £2,800
Includes consultation, procedure, anaesthesia and one follow-up appointment.
Unlike many private hospitals, our price covers everything — surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital stay, and follow-up. No surprise bills.
Book a Consultation →No GP referral required
Using health insurance?
We accept Aviva, Bupa, Healix, Vitality, and WPA.
Contact us with your membership number — we handle pre-authorisation.
View insurance information →Your Outcomes
Recovery after tonsillectomy
The first 10-14 days after tonsillectomy require careful management. Regular pain relief is essential — do not wait until the pain becomes severe before taking medication. Keeping well hydrated is critical. White patches at the back of the throat during healing are normal. There is a small risk of bleeding, particularly around day 7-10 — seek medical attention promptly if significant bleeding occurs.
Day 1-3
Worst pain. Soft diet and regular pain relief essential. Rest.
Day 4-7
Pain fluctuates — can worsen before improving. Continue pain relief and fluids.
Day 7-14
Gradual improvement. White coating in throat resolves. Return to light activities.
2-3 weeks
Full recovery. Return to normal diet and activities. Follow-up with surgeon.
Tonsil Removal is a well-established procedure with a high success rate. As with all surgery, risks exist including infection, blood clots, and complications. Your consultant will discuss your individual risk profile before you proceed.
Your Questions
Your questions, answered.
Book a Consultation
Ready to take the next step?
Book an initial consultation for tonsil removal — a no-commitment chat with our clinical coordinator. Pick a date that suits you and we’ll call within 24 hours to arrange the exact time with your consultant.
June 2026
Pick a date that suits you
This is your preferred date. We’ll confirm the exact time when we call.
Prefer to speak with someone?
No GP referral required. Same-week appointments available.
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