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The Benefits Of Laser Tonsillectomy
Mr Mike Dilkes is a Consultant at the London ENT Unit where the Laser Tonsillectomy procedure has become world-renowned in treating tonsil problems.
Mr Dilkes’ extensive career has seen him become the lead ENT Consultant for some of the country’s leading sports organisations, including the England Cricket Team and the Lawn Tennis Association. He has also appeared on This Morning and Channel Four.
We sat down with Mr Dilkes to discuss his career and in particular, the pioneering Laser Tonsillectomy procedure.
Tell us about your background in performing laser tonsillectomy?
Phew! That goes back a long way. I’ve used all sorts of lasers for tonsillectomy, I went to the USA and Germany about 20 years ago and watched what people were doing over there. I then developed their tonsillectomy technique which brings me to what I do today – over 1,000 cases later!
Typically how many Laser Tonsillectomies do you perform in a year?
On average I would say I perform around 5 per week, so that’s probably 200 plus procedures over a typical year.
What is the typical age of a patient that requires a Laser Tonsillectomy?
I would say around 25 in adults. In children we don’t need to use the laser tonsillectomy, they do well with the more conventional techniques.
When would you recommend a patient seek medical advice for having their tonsils removed?
I always recommend patients seek advice from a professional when a condition or complaint is starting to affect their quality of life.
What is the success rate of a Laser Tonsillectomy and why is it a preferable treatment method?
The success rate is pretty much 100%, like traditional tonsillectomy, just much less painful – and safer as the bleeding risk after surgery is substantially lower.
After undergoing a Laser Tonsillectomy how long will it take for a patient to make a full recovery?
The recovery time is different for everyone – like in all things, humans are variable creatures. I would say 7 days of soreness is the average.
From an initial consultation how long would it typically take for a patient to undergo a Laser Tonsillectomy?
At the London ENT Unit we can usually see a patient for surgery within days, offering our patients first class care in state-of-the-art facilities.
What is the benefit of being seen at a dedicated ENT clinic like London ENT Unit?
Experience. It counts for everything.
Find Out More
If you would like to learn more about the Laser Tonsillectomy procedure or would like to book an appointment with Mr Mike Dilkes or another member of London ENT Unit, then contact our team by calling 020 7078 3841 or by emailing [email protected].
