Frenectomy

What is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at improving the mobility of the tongue or lip when the frenulum, the small band of tissue connecting it to the gums, is too short. This procedure is particularly crucial for infants, as it allows them to latch on properly for nursing.

Approximately 10% of the population experiences a lip or tongue tie, a condition that typically develops during early fetal growth and restricts tongue movement. A straightforward surgical technique known as a frenectomy is employed to rectify either a tongue tie or a lip tie.

Problems With Tongue or Lip Tie

One of the first indications of a tongue or lip tie is difficulty in feeding for breastfed infants. Due to the lip's limited lift, an effective latch is challenging, and the restricted tongue movement makes it hard to extract milk. Bottle-fed infants can also struggle with feeding effectively if they have a tongue tie, although this is less frequent. Signs of ineffective feeding may include fussiness and inadequate weight gain.

Untreated tongue or lip ties can impact dental growth and speech development. Additionally, an improper resting position of the tongue can lead to an underdeveloped jaw structure. Breathing difficulties and an increased likelihood of requiring braces may also arise. Generally, a frenectomy is a safe and advisable solution for infants, effectively addressing the current issue while reducing the risk of future complications.

Frenectomy Procedure

Conducted as a quick, minimally invasive process, a frenectomy utilizes a laser to release the tie. Once the procedure is completed, both the lip and tongue will have the freedom to move normally. Typically, infants do not receive anesthesia, enabling them to feed immediately afterward. In contrast, older patients will be given numbing medication.

Following the procedure, the treatment area may appear white and gray, which is a normal part of the healing process. For older patients, specific stretching exercises are recommended. Parents or caregivers of infants treated for a tongue tie will need to massage the area with a clean finger gently before each feeding for the next week or two. It will also be important to retrain the infant’s latch to a flipped-out position during feeding.

Should you notice any unusual symptoms after the frenectomy, such as extended bleeding or signs of infection, please reach out to our office. We will do our utmost to see you as quickly as possible.