It's quick and easy to access Live Science Plus, simply enter your email below. We'll send you a confirmation and sign you up for our daily newsletter, keeping you up to date with the latest science news.
When most people have their tonsils removed, their only reward is a doctor's permission to eat ice cream for a week. Justin Werner got considerably more: recognition from Guinness World Records for having the world's largest tonsils.
Werner, a 21-year-old from Kansas, underwent a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy earlier this year after suffering from chronic sore throats and problems with snoring for a number of years.
During the operation at Excellent Surgery Center in Topeka, Kan., surgeons removed Werner's record-breaking tonsils. One measured a staggering 2.1 inches long, 1.1 inches wide, and 0.7 inch thick while the other measured 1.9 inches long, 1 inch wide and 0.7 inch thick.
Justin Werner shows off his tonsils, recently recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest in the world.
(Image credit: Guinness World Records)
The incredibly large glands were 0.8 inches and 0.6 inches longer, respectively, than the previous record-setting tonsils, which were removed from Justin Dodge of Milwaukee in 2008. (Must be something about tonsils and people named Justin.)
Justin Werner shows off his tonsils, recently recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest in the world.
(Image credit: Guinness World Records)
"I find it more humorous than anything," Werner said of his incredible claim to fame, adding that his breathing and sleeping have become much easier since having the tonsils removed. "The day after I got them out, there was no snoring at all, and I haven't had a sore throat since."
The tonsils, which sit at the back of your throat, are believed to form the first line of defense against inhaled pathogens, though their immunological role is not fully understood. Many people do just fine without them. Werner's doctor says it's impossible to know what caused his tonsils to grow so large.
Sign up for the Live Science daily newsletter now
Get the world’s most fascinating discoveries delivered straight to your inbox.
For the science geek in everyone, Live Science offers a fascinating window into the natural and technological world, delivering comprehensive and compelling news and analysis on everything from dinosaur discoveries, archaeological finds and amazing animals to health, innovation and wearable technology. We aim to empower and inspire our readers with the tools needed to understand the world and appreciate its everyday awe.
Live Science Plus
