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Tongue Tie Release

Tongue Tie Release (Frenotomy / Frenuloplasty)

Tongue Tie Release, also known as Frenotomy or Frenuloplasty, is a minor surgical procedure performed to correct a condition called Ankyloglossia — where the tissue (lingual frenulum) connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too short or tight. This condition can restrict tongue movement, affecting speech, eating, and in infants, breastfeeding. The procedure releases or reshapes the frenulum, restoring normal tongue mobility and improving oral function.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms indicating the need for tongue tie release may include:

  • Difficulty sticking out the tongue or moving it freely
  • Speech difficulties or unclear pronunciation
  • Problems with chewing or swallowing food
  • Discomfort or pain while moving the tongue
  • In infants – trouble breastfeeding, poor latching, or slow weight gain
  • Gap between lower front teeth or oral hygiene issues

Causes

Tongue tie is typically a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth. Causes include:

  • Incomplete separation of the tongue from the floor of the mouth during fetal development
  • Genetic predisposition (may run in families)
  • Associated with other oral or facial structural variations

Treatment / Procedure

Tongue tie release is a simple and safe procedure, usually performed under local or general anesthesia depending on the patient’s age. There are two main approaches:

  • Frenotomy: A quick procedure where the frenulum is snipped or cut to release the tongue. Commonly done in infants and young children.
  • Frenuloplasty: A more advanced surgical correction involving reshaping or repositioning the frenulum, often performed in older children or adults to improve mobility and healing.

The procedure is typically completed within 10–20 minutes, and most patients can resume normal activities shortly afterward. In some cases, speech therapy may be advised post-surgery to improve articulation and tongue coordination.


Benefits

  • Improved tongue movement and flexibility
  • Enhanced speech clarity and pronunciation
  • Better feeding and swallowing function
  • Improved oral hygiene and dental health
  • Quick procedure with minimal discomfort
  • Improved confidence and communication skills

Prevention / Post-Surgery Care

Tongue tie cannot be prevented as it is usually congenital, but post-surgical care helps ensure fast recovery and optimal results:

  • Maintain proper oral hygiene and keep the mouth clean
  • Follow recommended tongue exercises to prevent scar formation
  • Soft or liquid diet for a few days after surgery
  • Avoid hot and spicy foods during healing
  • Regular follow-up visits to monitor recovery
  • Speech therapy if advised for articulation improvement