Doctor Nguyen Duc Minh from the Department of Ear, Nose, and Throat at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi clarifies that tonsillectomy does not directly cause weight gain or affect blood pressure in adults. Tonsils are lymphoid tissues located at the back of the pharynx, at the junction of the respiratory and digestive tracts. When healthy, they act as a filter, protecting the body from harmful agents and bacteria entering through the nose and throat. Importantly, tonsils are not endocrine glands; they do not regulate energy metabolism or control hormones linked to weight gain.

A surgeon performs a tonsillectomy combined with uvulopalatopharyngoplasty and turbinate reduction to treat snoring. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

While some patients report weight gain post-surgery, this typically results from indirect factors. These include more attentive post-operative care, a richer and more balanced diet, and a more regulated lifestyle during recovery. Patients should not worry about a direct link between the procedure and body weight.

Recurrent tonsillitis often causes sore throats, difficulty swallowing, poor appetite, and fatigue, leading to weight loss. Following a tonsillectomy, inflammation subsides, pain lessens, and patients resume normal eating habits, which can facilitate weight gain compared to the pre-operative phase. However, post-tonsillectomy weight gain is not widespread. Patients with prolonged weakness, debility, or inadequate post-operative care may experience slower recovery and difficulty gaining weight.

Modern tonsillectomy, utilizing Coblator technology and a new generation plasma knife operating at a low 60-70 degrees C, offers a gentle and rapid procedure, typically lasting 30 minutes. This method thoroughly removes inflammation without harming surrounding tissues. Patients often regain consciousness within 10 minutes post-surgery, can speak and eat after three hours, and are discharged within 24 hours. The procedure also prevents recurrent peritonsillar abscesses and preserves vocal quality.

Doctor Nguyen Duc Minh

Department of Ear, Nose, and Throat

Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi