My daughter had her tonsils taken out last year. But she's started getting the same kinds of sore throats that she got before. Is it possible that her tonsils are growing back?
It is possible for tonsils to partially grow back. During a tonsillectomy, most of the tonsils are removed. However, some tissue often remains, so tonsils occasionally can regenerate (regrow) — although they probably won't grow back completely or to their original size.
If you're worried that your daughter's tonsils are growing back, talk to your doctor. But just because she still gets sore throats doesn't necessarily mean that her tonsils are growing back. Tonsillectomies may result in fewer throat infections, but kids can still get some. Sore throats also can be caused by other things, like colds, allergies, and dry air.
Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: April 2015
|American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) The AAP is committed to the health and well-being of infants, adolescents, and young adults. The website offers news articles and tips on health for families.|
|American College of Surgeons The website of the American College of Surgeons provides consumer information about common surgeries such as appendectomy.|
|A to Z: Hypertrophy, Tonsillar (Enlarged Tonsils) Tonsillar hypertrophy, or enlarged tonsils, can happen due to an ongoing (chronic) condition or a temporary effect of an infection.|
|First Aid: Sore Throat Sore throats are usually caused by viruses. Here's what to do if your child has a sore throat.|
|Tonsillitis Tonsillitis, an inflammation of the tonsils caused by an infection, causes sore throat, fever, swollen glands in the neck, and trouble swallowing.|
|Strep Throat Strep throat is a common cause of sore throat in kids and teens. It usually requires treatment with antibiotics, but improves in a few days.|
|A to Z Symptoms: Sore Throat A sore throat can be caused by many things, from viral and bacterial infections to seasonal allergies and GERD.|
|Tonsils and Tonsillectomies Not everyone knows what tonsils do or why they may need to be removed. Knowing the facts can help alleviate the fears of both parents and kids facing a tonsillectomy.|
|Are Kids With No Tonsils More Susceptible to Infections? Find out what the experts have to say.|
|Enlarged Adenoids Often, tonsils and adenoids are surgically removed at the same time. Though some kids need surgery, enlarged adenoids are normal in others.|
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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