Tongue Tie Release doctors in India

How Is Frenotomy Procedure Performed?

Tongue-tie release, medically known as frenotomy, is a minor surgical procedure performed to treat a condition called tongue-tie (ankyloglossia). Tongue-tie occurs when the lingual frenulum, the small band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, is unusually short, thick, or tight, restricting the tongue’s movement.

This condition is present at birth and can interfere with breastfeeding, speech development, swallowing, and oral hygiene in some individuals. A frenotomy involves making a small cut in the frenulum to release the tongue and improve its range of motion.

The procedure is simple, quick, and commonly performed in infants, though older children and adults may also undergo it if tongue-tie causes functional problems.

Why Tongue Tie Release Is Needed

A frenotomy is recommended when tongue-tie significantly affects oral function or feeding.

Common reasons for the procedure include:

● Difficulty breastfeeding in infants

● Painful breastfeeding for the mother

● Poor milk transfer during feeding

● Speech articulation difficulties in older children

● Difficulty sticking out the tongue or moving it freely

● Challenges with eating, swallowing, or oral hygiene

Doctors usually perform a careful evaluation before recommending the procedure because not all cases of tongue-tie require surgical treatment.

Types of Tongue Tie Surgery

1. Frenotomy

Frenotomy is the most common and simplest treatment for tongue-tie. It involves cutting the restrictive frenulum to free the tongue.

2. Frenuloplasty

If the frenulum is very thick or requires more correction, doctors may perform a frenuloplasty, a more extensive surgical procedure that may require stitches and anesthesia.

Procedure for Tongue Tie Release

1. Medical Evaluation

The doctor examines the tongue, oral structure, and feeding or speech difficulties to confirm the diagnosis.

2. Preparation

The procedure is typically performed in a clinic, hospital nursery, or doctor’s office. In infants, anesthesia is usually not required due to minimal nerve endings in the frenulum.

3. The Frenotomy Procedure

The healthcare provider gently lifts the tongue and makes a small cut in the frenulum using sterile scissors or sometimes a laser. This releases the tissue and allows the tongue to move more freely.

4. Post-Procedure Care

The procedure typically takes only about one minute. Babies are usually fed immediately afterward, which helps soothe them and control any minor bleeding.

Benefits of Tongue Tie Release

Frenotomy can provide several benefits, including:

● Improved breastfeeding and feeding ability

● Reduced pain during breastfeeding

● Better tongue mobility

● Improved speech articulation in some cases

● Enhanced oral hygiene and chewing ability

Many parents notice improvement in feeding soon after the procedure, although outcomes may vary.

Risks and Complications

Frenotomy is considered a safe procedure, but like any surgery, it carries some small risks.

Possible complications include:

● Minor bleeding

● Infection

● Scarring

● Damage to nearby structures such as salivary glands (rare)

● Reattachment of the frenulum

These complications are uncommon and usually manageable with proper medical care.

Recovery After Frenotomy

Recovery from tongue-tie release is generally quick.

● Infants often resume feeding immediately after the procedure.

● Mild discomfort or irritation may occur for a short time.

● Follow-up visits may be recommended to monitor healing.

● Some children may benefit from speech therapy or tongue exercises to improve mobility.

Most patients recover within a few days.