How Much Does Tonsillectomy Cost?

Average cost: $6,500 | Range: $4,000 - $10,000

Average Cost
$6,500
With Insurance
$500-$3,000
Recovery Time
1-2 weeks
Urgency
Elective

About This Procedure

Surgical removal of the tonsils, commonly performed for recurrent tonsillitis or sleep apnea in children and adults.

Hospital Stay: Outpatient
Recovery: 1-2 weeks

What Affects the Price?

Adult tonsillectomies cost 20-30% more than pediatric due to higher complication rates and longer recovery. Coblation (cold ablation) technique may cost slightly more but causes less post-op pain. Hospital-based outpatient surgery costs more than ambulatory surgery centers.

Key Cost Factors

  • Patient age (child vs adult)
  • Surgical technique
  • Anesthesia type
  • Facility fees
  • Pre-op evaluation
  • Post-op care

Cost With vs Without Insurance

Without Insurance
$4,000 - $10,000

Full chargemaster or negotiated cash price

With Insurance
$500 - $3,000

After deductible, copay, and coinsurance

Insurance costs assume you have met your deductible. If you haven't, your out-of-pocket costs will be higher until the deductible is satisfied.

Cost by State (Sample)

StateLowHighAvgW/ Insurance
Alabama$3,400$8,500$5,525$2,550
Alaska$5,680$14,200$9,230$4,260
Arizona$3,880$9,700$6,305$2,910
Arkansas$3,280$8,200$5,330$2,460
California$5,520$13,800$8,970$4,140
Colorado$4,480$11,200$7,280$3,360
Connecticut$5,120$12,800$8,320$3,840
Delaware$4,400$11,000$7,150$3,300
Florida$4,200$10,500$6,825$3,150
Georgia$3,840$9,600$6,240$2,880
View all states

Frequently Asked Questions

Always Get Multiple Quotes

Medical procedure prices vary by 300-500% between facilities. Getting quotes from multiple providers is the best way to find a fair price.

How to Negotiate Medical Bills

Insurance Coverage

Compare insurance types to find the best coverage for tonsillectomy.

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