{"id":131,"date":"2024-10-10T15:42:22","date_gmt":"2024-10-10T15:42:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.chicagotongueties.com\/blog\/?p=131"},"modified":"2024-11-12T15:44:38","modified_gmt":"2024-11-12T15:44:38","slug":"what-parents-should-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.chicagotongueties.com\/blog\/what-parents-should-know\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Time for an Infant Frenectomy: What Parents Should Know"},"content":{"rendered":"
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A frenectomy is a common procedure for infants with lip or tongue tie, conditions that can interfere with breastfeeding, swallowing, and later speech development. The procedure involves releasing the frenulum, a small fold of tissue that restricts the tongue or lip\u2019s movement. If you\u2019re considering a frenectomy for your baby, you may wonder when the best time is to do it, what the procedure entails, and how to care for your baby afterward. Read on for a helpful guide that answers these questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

When is the Best Time to Get an Infant Frenectomy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Most pediatricians recommend addressing tongue-tie or lip-tie as soon as possible after diagnosis, which is often within the first few weeks of life. Early intervention can help avoid breastfeeding challenges, which can impact both the baby\u2019s nutrition and the mother\u2019s comfort. If an infant is struggling to latch or feed effectively, a frenectomy<\/a> may be recommended after assessing the tie\u2019s severity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Infants heal quickly, and younger babies are less likely to remember or be affected by the procedure emotionally. For newborns, frenectomies are often performed in a lip and tongue-tie center without general anesthesia. Many parents report that breastfeeding improves almost immediately following the release, so the benefits of early intervention can be very rewarding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Happens During a Frenectomy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The frenectomy procedure itself is relatively simple and quick. The baby is typically swaddled for comfort and security, and a sterilized tool (usually a laser) will be used to carefully release the frenulum. The laser cauterizes as it cuts, reducing bleeding and minimizing discomfort. Laser frenectomies are preferred because they are less invasive and have a lower risk of infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During the procedure, a topical numbing gel may be used to reduce any discomfort the baby may feel. The actual procedure usually takes only a few minutes, and babies can often breastfeed immediately afterward to soothe them and help with any residual bleeding or discomfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caring for Your Baby After a Frenectomy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Proper aftercare is essential for your baby\u2019s comfort and healing after a frenectomy. Here are some tips to keep in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n