Frenectomy for Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie
 Concerns like breastfeeding difficulty, delayed speech, or restricted oral movement often point to a condition involving oral tethered tissues—commonly referred to as tongue-tie or lip-tie. A frenectomy is a targeted surgical procedure used to correct these issues. At Oral & Facial Surgery, our experienced oral surgeons provide expert care for patients of all ages dealing with these conditions.
What Is a Frenectomy and Why It's Needed
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or releases a frenum—a small fold of tissue that restricts the movement of the tongue (lingual frenum) or upper lip (labial frenum). When these tissues are too tight or short, they can interfere with everyday functions like feeding, speaking, or maintaining oral hygiene.
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the tissue under the tongue restricts its range of motion, while lip-tie involves a tight attachment between the upper lip and the gums. Both can lead to a range of symptoms:
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Infants - Difficulty latching during breastfeeding, excessive fussiness, gassiness, and slow weight gain.
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Children - Delayed speech, trouble with pronunciation, and challenges in oral hygiene.
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Adults - Speech issues, discomfort during daily oral activities, gum recession, and challenges with kissing or playing wind instruments. |
Early treatment can prevent long-term issues and support healthy oral development.
Types of Frenectomy Procedures
There are two main types of frenectomy procedures, each targeting a different area of the mouth:
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Lingual Frenectomy - Releases the frenum under the tongue to improve mobility and function.
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Labial Frenectomy - Removes or reduces the frenum between the upper lip and gums to ease tension and support better oral hygiene. |
Some patients, especially infants or young children, may need both procedures. The process can vary slightly by age:
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Infants - Quick procedure with minimal downtime; often improves feeding right away.
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Children & Adults - May require sutures or more detailed aftercare for optimal healing. |
A comprehensive evaluation will determine which type of frenectomy is appropriate for each case.
How the Frenectomy Procedure Works
Understanding the steps involved in a frenectomy can help alleviate concerns and prepare patients or caregivers for what to expect.
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Initial evaluation to review medical history and perform an oral exam.
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Application of local anesthesia or topical numbing agent.
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Use of a surgical scalpel or laser tool to release the frenum.
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Post-procedure observation and care instructions provided. |
Laser frenectomies are often preferred due to their benefits, which include less bleeding, faster healing, and minimal discomfort. The entire procedure usually takes only a few minutes. Many infants can breastfeed immediately afterward, while older children and adults may need a day or two of modified eating and gentle care.
Benefits of Frenectomy Treatment
The advantages of a successful tongue-tie or lip-tie release are often immediate and long-lasting:
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Better Breastfeeding - Infants can latch more effectively, improving feeding and reducing maternal discomfort.
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Improved Speech - Children often show better pronunciation and articulation.
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Enhanced Oral Hygiene - Easier brushing and flossing reduce the risk of gum issues.
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Greater Comfort - Adults enjoy improved mobility for eating, speaking, and other oral functions. |
Many families report positive changes in sleep, digestion, and developmental milestones following early intervention.
Who Performs a Frenectomy?
While general dentists or pediatricians may diagnose tongue-tie or lip-tie, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are specially trained to perform precise soft tissue surgeries like frenectomies.
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Expertise in Oral Surgery - Advanced training ensures precise, effective treatment.
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Pediatric Care - Our team offers gentle, child-focused approaches to put families at ease.
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Adult Treatment Planning - Tailored care for complex or long-standing cases.
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Collaborative Support - Coordination with lactation consultants, speech therapists, or pediatricians when needed. |
At Oral & Facial Surgery, we use state-of-the-art tools and proven techniques to deliver successful outcomes for patients of all ages.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Recovery from a frenectomy is typically smooth, especially with proper care. Here’s what patients or caregivers should know:
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Immediate Feeding Improvement - Many infants feed better right away.
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Mild Discomfort - Manageable with cold compresses or over-the-counter pain relief as advised.
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Post-op Exercises - Gentle stretching or tongue exercises may be recommended, especially after tongue-tie release.
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Healing Timeline - Most patients heal within a few days to a week. |
It’s normal to experience some fussiness, minor bleeding, or temporary discomfort. Follow-up visits help ensure proper healing and continued progress. Ongoing support like speech therapy or lactation consultation may be part of the treatment plan.
Is Frenectomy Covered by Insurance?
Insurance coverage for frenectomy surgery often depends on the individual policy and whether the procedure is deemed medically necessary.
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Medical Necessity - Many plans provide coverage if functional issues like feeding or speech are documented.
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Policy Variations - Coverage can differ based on age, insurer, and plan type.
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Pre-Authorization - Some providers require documentation before approval.
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Out-of-Pocket Options - Some families may choose to pay directly for faster access to care or laser procedures. |
Our office staff can assist in reviewing your insurance and discussing financing or payment options during your consultation.
Schedule a Consultation with Our Oral Surgery Team
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of tongue-tie or lip-tie, a professional evaluation is the first step toward relief. At Oral & Facial Surgery, we offer compassionate, expert-led care for patients of all ages. From diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, our team ensures personalized support throughout the journey.
Call (509) 872-4294 today to schedule a consultation and learn how a frenectomy can restore comfort, function, and confidence.
FAQs
What is the difference between tongue-tie and lip-tie?
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) refers to a tight or short lingual frenum restricting tongue movement, while lip-tie involves a tight upper labial frenum that affects the upper lip’s mobility. Both can cause feeding, speech, or oral hygiene issues.
Is laser frenectomy better than traditional methods?
Laser frenectomy often results in less bleeding, reduced discomfort, and quicker healing compared to traditional scalpel methods. It’s especially popular for treating infants and young children due to its precision and minimal invasiveness.
How soon can my baby breastfeed after a frenectomy?
Many infants are able to breastfeed immediately after the procedure, sometimes with noticeable improvement in latch and comfort. However, ongoing support from a lactation consultant may enhance results.
Is a frenectomy painful?
The procedure is typically well-tolerated. Infants receive topical anesthesia, while older children and adults may receive local anesthesia. Post-procedure discomfort is usually mild and short-lived.
Will insurance cover the cost of a frenectomy?
Many insurance plans cover frenectomy when it's deemed medically necessary. Our team can assist in determining your coverage and guide you through the pre-authorization process if needed. |
