Tonsillectomy methods can be divided into two categories: subcapsular and intracapsular. Subcapsular, or total, tonsillectomy methods remove the tonsil tissue completely. This is the traditional tonsillectomy. Intracapsular or sub-total tonsillectomy, also known as tonsillar reduction or tonsillar shaving remove about 90% of the tonsils, leaving a layer of tissue over the throat muscles to protect them from exposure. Advances in low temperature technology for both methods can help your child recover more quickly from the procedure.