Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where a baby is born with a short, tight band of tissue (lingual frenulum) that restricts tongue movement. This can interfere with breastfeeding, swallowing, and even speech development if left untreated. Tongue tie surgery in Melbourne, also known as a frenotomy or frenuloplasty, is a common and effective procedure that helps restore tongue mobility and improve feeding.

If your baby has been diagnosed with tongue tie, here’s what you can expect from the assessment, surgery, and recovery process.

Signs of Tongue Tie

Tongue tie can be present in various ways, depending on its severity. Some of the most common symptoms in infants are:

• Difficulty latching or staying latched during breastfeeding
• Clicking sounds while feeding
• Poor weight gain
• Long feeding sessions or frequent feeds
• Sore or damaged nipples in breastfeeding mothers

While some babies with tongue tie have no noticeable issues, many experience feeding difficulties that can affect both baby and parent.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Assessment is usually carried out by a paediatrician, lactation consultant, or tongue tie specialist in Melbourne. Diagnosis involves a physical examination of the mouth and an evaluation of feeding behaviour. The professional will determine whether the tongue tie is impacting function and whether surgery is necessary.

The Tongue Tie Surgery Procedure

The most common procedure for infants is a frenotomy. Here’s what to expect:

1. Before the Procedure

In most cases, no anaesthesia is required for babies under 6 months, though some clinics may apply a topical anaesthetic for comfort. The baby is usually swaddled to prevent movement.

2. During the Procedure

Using sterile scissors or a laser, the practitioner quickly snips the frenulum. The procedure itself takes less than a minute. Minimal bleeding occurs during this tongue tie release in Melbourne, and babies often breastfeed immediately afterwards to soothe discomfort.

3. Frenuloplasty for Complex Cases

For older infants or more complex ties, frenuloplasty may be recommended. This procedure requires local or general anaesthesia and involves sutures. It is performed by a paediatric dentist or oral surgeon.

Aftercare and Recovery

Recovery is generally quick, especially after a simple frenotomy. Here’s what parents can expect:

• Feeding Improvement: Many babies show immediate improvement in latching and feeding. However, some may take a few days or weeks to adapt.

• Minor Discomfort: Babies may be fussy for a short period post-surgery. Breastfeeding or offering expressed milk helps soothe them.

• Stretching Exercises: Some practitioners recommend tongue exercises to prevent reattachment. These may include gentle lifting or stretching of the tongue several times a day.

• Follow-Up Appointments: A review may be scheduled to assess healing and function. If latching issues persist, consulting a tongue tie specialist in Melbourne is advisable.

Risks and Considerations

While complications are rare, it’s important to be aware of potential risks:

• Mild bleeding or discomfort
• Infection (extremely rare with proper hygiene)
• Reattachment of the frenulum if exercises are not performed as advised
• Need for a second procedure in some cases

Overall, tongue tie surgery in Melbourne is considered safe and effective, especially when performed early. Surgery is usually recommended if tongue tie is affecting feeding, weight gain, or causing pain to the breastfeeding parent.

In cases where symptoms are mild or non-existent, monitoring without surgery may be appropriate.

Understanding the process and what to expect before, during, and after surgery ensures you’re making informed decisions for your child’s well-being. If you suspect your baby has a tongue tie, consult a qualified professional today. Timely intervention can make all the difference!

Book a Consultation with a Tongue Tie Specialist Online

Victoria Small Surgery is renowned for operating on tongue tie surgeries for infants. You can book a consultation online by providing a few necessary details, or call us directly at 03 9114 8669 to make an appointment.