Tongue Tie Release and What to Expect on the Day!

Tongue tie release: What to expect.

What Is Tongue Tie Release?

Tongue tie release, also known as frenotomy or frenectomy, is a simple procedure where the restrictive band of tissue (lingual frenulum) under the tongue is cut or lasered to improve movement. It is commonly performed when a baby’s tongue tie is interfering with feeding, speech, or oral development.

Why Might a Tongue Tie Release Be Necessary?

If a baby struggles with breastfeeding due to tongue tie, they may have difficulty latching, tire quickly, or experience excessive gas from swallowing air. A release can help improve:

• Breastfeeding efficiency (better latch and milk transfer)

• Maternal comfort (less nipple pain and damage)

• Weight gain in babies (better feeding effectiveness)

• Speech development (if tongue restriction persists as the child grows)

  
  

How Is the Procedure Done?

Tongue tie release is a quick and usually low-risk procedure that can be done in different ways:

1. Scissor Frenotomy: A doctor or specialist snips the frenulum with sterile scissors. This method is fast, often with minimal discomfort and little to no bleeding.

2. Laser Frenectomy: A specialized laser is used to release the tie. This method has minimal bleeding, reduces the chance of reattachment, and promotes faster healing.

The procedure is typically done in a doctor’s office and takes only a few minutes. Most babies can feed immediately afterward.

Does It Hurt?

For young babies, tongue tie release is often done without anaesthesia because the frenulum has very few nerve endings. Some babies may cry briefly, but many settle quickly and can be comforted with breastfeeding. Older children may require local anaesthesia.

Aftercare and Healing

• Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding immediately after the procedure helps soothe the baby and encourages tongue movement.

• Some stretching exercises (recommended by a specialist) may be needed to prevent reattachment.

• Minor discomfort or fussiness may last for a day or two, but healing is generally quick.

• Some babies show immediate improvement, while others take a few days to adjust.

  
  

Possible Risks

While complications are rare, potential risks include:

• Minor bleeding

• Temporary fussiness or discomfort

• Possible reattachment (if stretches are not done properly)

  
  

Should You Consider a Tongue Tie Release?

If you suspect your baby has a tongue tie that is causing feeding difficulties, consult your GP, Midwife or at times community breastfeeding support services (Occupational Therapist) who will be able to refer you to the right services, support or evaluation if necessary. If the tongue tie is affecting feeding, speech, or oral function, a release may be beneficial.

PS: I will never forget the moment my daughter, just 2.5 months old, was diagnosed with a tongue tie. The emotions crashed over me — a flood of relief mixed with deep fear. Relief, because after all the struggles, the sleepless nights, and the endless questioning of myself, I finally had an answer. Fear, because I was standing at the edge of the unknown, facing an impossible choice: Should I release it... or not? My heart ached with the weight of it all.

Subscribe to read more about my story — the questions, the courage, and the love that carried us through and will do for you too!

Breastfeeding Mother