Tongue-tie release
tongue-tie release · frenotomy · short tongue frenulum · tongue tie clipping
The doctor makes a small cut in the short band under the tongue. After that the tongue moves more freely.
When a short band makes it hard for a baby to breastfeed or for a child to say certain sounds.
⏱ Duration: the procedure usually takes a few minutes, up to 30 minutes in older children
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. A baby is usually fed after the procedure. Ask the clinic when to feed before it.
- Mood. Calmly explain to an older child that the doctor will help the tongue move more freely.
What to bring
- Your child's document
- A blanket or wipe
- A referral from a speech therapist or pediatrician, if you have one
How it goes
- The doctor examines the tongue and the band
- Numbing is given, as a gel or an injection
- Your child is held gently
- The band is cut with scissors or a laser
- Sometimes thin stitches are placed
- The small wound is pressed with a gauze
What you'll feel
- A baby usually cries only briefly
- A little blood, which usually stops quickly
- The area under the tongue is sore for a few days
Afterwards
- A baby is usually put to the breast right away
- For older children: soft, cool food for 1 to 2 days
- A white patch will appear under the tongue. This is how it heals
- Tongue exercises as the doctor or speech therapist shows you
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Bleeding does not stop after 10 to 15 minutes of pressure
- Your child refuses to eat and drink
- Fever above 38, severe swelling
Common questions
Does it have to be done?
Not always. The doctor decides if the band gets in the way of eating or speaking.
Will my child speak correctly right away?
Not right away. Speech therapy sessions are often needed.