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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Should Ear Pain While Swallowing After A Tonsillectomy Be Treated Apart From A Hole At The Scar Site?

Hi, I am a 24 year old female nearly 4 weeks recovery post tonsillectomy surgery. A few days ago I noticed a hole on one of the pillars right where the scab used to be. I still have pain when swallowing on that side including ear pain (same amount, type, and location of pain during my recovery and no new symptoms). I have consulted with my ENT surgeon about this and they prescribed me pain meds and will review in a week regarding the pain. My scabs on the side with the hole only came off a few days ago so it was quite slower than the average person. However, I am extremely worried if this hole will never close as it is quite uncomfortable and I really don’t want to have this hole forever. Will this hole heal by itself and close? Thank you so much.
posted on Tue, 1 Aug 2023
Twitter Tue, 22 Aug 2023 Answered on
Twitter Sat, 2 Sep 2023 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

The scabs commonly fall off 5-10 days post tonsillectomy operation. The holes appear about 3-7 days post-surgery. It commonly heals by itself and closes by itself over several months. No worries, just be patient. No specific treatment is required, it closes by itself. Be careful while taking semi solid food as it may get stuck there.

Take rest and take water, fluids and liquid or semi solid food till you can comfortably eat without pain on swallowing. To get rid of pain you can take the pain-relieving medicines prescribed by your treating surgeon. You can take NSAIDs or opioids to get relief while swallowing.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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How Should Ear Pain While Swallowing After A Tonsillectomy Be Treated Apart From A Hole At The Scar Site?

Hello, The scabs commonly fall off 5-10 days post tonsillectomy operation. The holes appear about 3-7 days post-surgery. It commonly heals by itself and closes by itself over several months. No worries, just be patient. No specific treatment is required, it closes by itself. Be careful while taking semi solid food as it may get stuck there. Take rest and take water, fluids and liquid or semi solid food till you can comfortably eat without pain on swallowing. To get rid of pain you can take the pain-relieving medicines prescribed by your treating surgeon. You can take NSAIDs or opioids to get relief while swallowing. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician