Tonsil Removal Surgery (Tonsillectomy) in Singapore

Tonsillectomy, or tonsil removal surgery, is a common ENT procedure performed to remove the tonsils when they cause recurrent infections, breathing difficulties, or other complications. At The ENT Specialist Centre, we provide personalised care to ensure the procedure is safe, effective, and as comfortable as possible for each patient.

Why Tonsil Removal May Be Needed

Tonsillectomy is usually recommended when:

  • Recurrent tonsillitis or chronic throat infections occur despite medical treatment
  • Obstructive sleep apnea or breathing problems are caused by enlarged tonsils
  • Difficulty swallowing or persistent discomfort due to enlarged or inflamed tonsils

Your ENT specialist will evaluate your medical history, symptom frequency, and overall health to determine if surgery is appropriate.

How Tonsillectomy is Performed

Tonsil removal is performed under general anaesthesia to ensure comfort and safety. The surgeon removes the tonsils through the mouth without external incisions.

The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the complexity and size of the tonsils. Modern surgical techniques minimise bleeding and reduce recovery time, allowing most patients to return home the same day.

What to Expect Before Surgery

Before your tonsillectomy, your ENT specialist will conduct a pre-operative assessment, which may include:

  • Physical examination and review of your medical history
  • Blood tests or other investigations if needed
  • Instructions on fasting and medications prior to surgery

Clear guidance is provided to ensure you are prepared and safe for the procedure.

Recovery After Tonsil Removal

Recovery after tonsil removal usually takes about 7–14 days, during which patients may experience:

  • Sore throat and mild pain, especially when swallowing
  • Swelling of the tongue or throat
  • Fatigue and reduced appetite

To support healing, patients are advised to:

  • Eat soft, cool foods and stay hydrated
  • Avoid strenuous activities for at least 1–2 weeks
  • Follow-up with the ENT specialist for post-operative check-ups

Most patients notice significant improvement in symptoms such as recurrent infections or breathing difficulties once fully recovered.

Risks and Complications

While tonsillectomy is generally safe, potential risks include:

  • Post-operative bleeding, which is rare but may require urgent attention
  • Infection at the surgical site
  • Dehydration due to reduced fluid intake from throat pain
  • Temporary changes in taste or voice

Your ENT specialist will discuss these risks in detail and provide instructions to minimise complications.

Tonsil Removal Surgery Cost in Singapore

The surgeon’s fee for tonsil removal surgery in Singapore typically ranges from SGD 4,500 to 6,000.

This estimate does not include other associated costs such as hospital charges, anaesthesia, medications, or post-operative care. The total cost may vary based on the complexity of your condition, the need for additional tests, and your insurance coverage.

For a detailed cost breakdown and advice on insurance claims or a Letter of Guarantee (LOG), please contact our clinic to discuss your treatment plan.

When to See an ENT Specialist

You should consider an ENT consultation if you experience:

  • Frequent throat infections or tonsillitis
  • Breathing problems or snoring caused by enlarged tonsils
  • Difficulty swallowing or persistent throat discomfort

Early evaluation ensures that tonsil removal is done at the right time, reducing complications and improving overall health and quality of life.

Disclaimer

The content provided on The ENT Specialist Centre website is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.

Contact Us

We’re here to help—schedule an appointment today and get support for your ENT needs.