Expert: David Olson, MD - 6/28/2009

Question
My son is almost 11 months old.  He has had over 7 ear infections and 2 cases of tonsillitis.  I was wondering how early they take out tonsils?  We are scheduled to see an ENT in the middle of July, but I want to know if it is too early to ask about tonsils?  Most people in my family have had theirs removed so I am thinking it is just a matter of time.

Answer
Hi, Elessa,

There is no a good relationship between removing tonsils and helping ear infections.  There is a good relationship, a positive one, in removal of adenoids helping to prevent further ear infections.  Adenoidectomy and placement of ear tubes is a common combined procedure that the ENT doctor will talk to you about.

Good luck, Dr. Olson