Before, During, and After: What to Expect From a Tongue-Tie Revision

Learning your child needs a tongue-tie revision in Phillipsburg may catch you a bit off guard. You know there’s a problem but discovering the only way to treat it is for your little one to undergo a procedure can be somewhat daunting. Fortunately, this article is here to provide the details of what you and your baby can expect before, during, and after a frenectomy. Read on to discover more about this standard process and how you can prepare for the big day.

Before the Frenectomy

The pre-frenectomy process involves an examination by a skilled lip-and-tongue-tie specialist. It is during this appointment that they will render a test to see how restricted the band of tissue is. You can also perform a test at home by seeing how well the child can stick out their tongue. One of the most common signs, especially in babies, however, is difficulty latching during breastfeeding.

If you notice fussiness, difficulty nursing, or their tongue has a V-shape toward the tip, it’s time to bring them in for a consultation.

During the Frenectomy

Once the specialist formally diagnoses the problem as a tongue-tie, the next step will be to undergo a frenectomy. On the day of the procedure, you will sit with your child on your lap. Little ones must lie back with their feet positioned toward your midsection. Using a soft tissue laser, the specialist will quickly revise the restricted frenulum (the band of tissue underneath the tongue) to allow for a wider range of motion.

Although some little ones may cry because of the unknown situation, the procedure itself is virtually painless. The concentrated beam of light from the laser does not radiate any heat or vibration, and it minimizes bleeding and swelling for an easier recovery process.

After the Frenectomy

Once the tongue-tie revision is complete, your child’s specialist will provide detailed instructions regarding how you are to stretch the area at home. If your baby is the one receiving the revision, you’ll be instructed to try and nurse immediately following the procedure. This will help them to feel safe and comfortable much quicker.

It is possible to provide your child with acetaminophen (if old enough) to minimize any discomfort. In the hours and days following their frenectomy, it is normal for there to be slight bleeding. The revised area will also appear white or yellow, which is completely normal. By completing the stretching exercises mentioned by your child’s specialist, you will reduce the chances of the banded tissue reattaching.

The process of tongue-tie revision is simple and minimally invasive. Once it is completed, you can expect your child to have more oral function, which will improve their quality of life.

About the Author
Dr. Garcia-DeMartino is a lip and tongue-tie specialist based in Phillipsburg. Seeing a common trend of lip and tongue-ties developing in infants and parents struggling, she underwent extensive training to begin treating these problems. Attending the International World Clinical Laser Institute, she became an expert in the use of soft tissue and hard tissue lasers. Now, she proudly helps patients suffering from the effects of lip and tongue-ties. If you or your child is experiencing problems because of restricted tissues, visit our website or call (908) 859-5260.