Overview
As a parent, you want the very best for your child. So, learning your baby may need corrective surgery (known as frenotomy) to deal with their tongue-tie can be distressing. But it’s important to realise that the procedure is quick and gentle and frees their tongue so they can feed more comfortably.
What Is Tongue Tie Surgery (Frenotomy)?
A frenotomy is a quick and simple procedure to release the fold of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth (known as the lingual frenulum). When this tissue fold is too tight, it limits how well you can move your tongue, which is known as tongue tie (ankyloglossia).
Tongue tie surgery is relatively painless for your baby, only taking a few minutes to complete. It is often carried out in the doctor’s office, and there is no need for anaesthesia. However, your doctor might suggest oral sucrose (sugar solution) to help your baby stay comfortable throughout. Most babies are able to feed immediately afterwards, which can help soothe them more quickly.
What Is The Difference Between Frenotomy, Frenectomy, & Frenulectomy?
When researching tongue tie surgery, you may have come across a few different terms that relate back to tongue tie. Here’s a simple breakdown so you can be prepared for your baby’s appointment:
- Frenotomy – A simple snip of the lingual frenulum to free tongue movement. This is the most common procedure for babies.
- Frenectomy – A more comprehensive removal of the lingual frenulum, sometimes done with a laser or scissors.
- Frenulectomy – Another term for the removal of the frenulum that is often used interchangeably with frenectomy.
It’s important to understand that in the majority of cases, your baby will only need a frenotomy. In the rare case that they need a frenectomy, your ENT doctor will discuss the best options to ensure your baby’s well-being is prioritised.
How Do You Know If Your Baby Needs A Frenotomy?
Although sometimes adjusting your baby’s feeding position or latch can help overcome feeding difficulties, a frenotomy can be beneficial if you notice your baby is experiencing the following symptoms.
Feeding Difficulties
- Difficulty latching onto the breast or bottle
- Prolonged or fussy feeds
- Clicking sounds while sucking
- Poor weight gain
Tongue & Mouth Signs
- A heart-shaped, notched, or unusually short tongue when sticking out
- Limited tongue movement, especially lifting or side-to-side motion
- Difficulty moving the tongue past the lower gum
Additional Symptoms
- Breast/nipple pain while breastfeeding
- Dribbling milk due to poor sucking
- Gassiness or colic-like symptoms
If you recognise any of these signs, an appointment with a tongue tie specialist can help determine if a frenotomy would be the best option for your baby.
Types of Tongue Tie
Tongue tie can vary in both how restrictive it is and where it is located under the tongue. It is generally classified by degree and position.
Severity Levels
- Mild – The restriction doesn’t significantly affect movement, and feeding issues may be minimal.
- Moderate – The restriction is more pronounced, often leading to feeding difficulties and discomfort.
- Severe – The tongue is tightly tethered, making feeding, tongue mobility, and even crying patterns difficult for your baby.
Types by Position
- Anterior tongue tie – This occurs near the front of the tongue, often appearing as a visible tight band. It tends to be easier to detect and may cause immediate feeding issues.
- Posterior tongue tie – This is deeper under the tongue, making it less visible but still restrictive. It can be harder to diagnose and is often linked to subtle but persistent feeding challenges.
Both anterior and posterior tongue ties can range from mild to severe, influencing treatment decisions. Your doctor (typically an ENT consultant) will assess the restriction and determine the best treatment.
How Tongue Tie Surgery Works
Tongue tie surgery, or frenotomy, is a quick and gentle procedure that typically takes only a few seconds. Your baby will be carefully swaddled so they remain comfortable and soothed. The doctor will then cut the restrictive tissue under the tongue, typically using sterile scissors, resulting in little to no bleeding.
Babies may be a little fussy immediately after the procedure but settle quickly, especially if your doctor recommends feeding immediately afterwards.
Why Choose Mid Ulster Clinic for Your Baby’s Tongue Tie Surgery?
We understand your baby’s well-being is your number one priority. Our team provides expert, compassionate care in a calm and supportive environment to enable the best outcome for you and your baby.
Why Parents Trust Us:
- Shorter wait times – Feeding difficulties are distressing, which is why we offer quick access to tongue tie treatment so your baby can feed more comfortably as soon as possible.
- Experienced specialists – Our highly skilled team has years of experience diagnosing and treating all types of tongue ties, using precise techniques to improve tongue mobility and support better feeding outcomes.
- Modern, baby-friendly facilities – Our clinic is designed to provide a calm and welcoming environment where both babies and parents feel comfortable from consultation to recovery.
- Personalised support – We are here to guide you through every stage of your baby’s tongue-tie journey, offering expert advice before the procedure and gentle care during treatment and recovery.
If you suspect your baby has a tongue tie and needs corrective surgery, we are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to book an appointment and help your little one feed and thrive comfortably.
- Medically Reviewed
