Does fixing a tongue-tie improve breastfeeding?

Understanding Tongue-Tie and Its Impact on Breastfeeding
Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where the lingual frenulum—the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is abnormally tight or short. This can restrict the tongue’s movement, potentially leading to difficulties in breastfeeding. Many new mothers report challenges such as pain during nursing, ineffective latching, and inadequate milk transfer, which can stem from this condition.
The Role of Frenotomy
For some infants, a frenotomy, a minor surgical procedure to release the tight frenulum, is recommended to improve breastfeeding outcomes. Research indicates that while many infants with tongue-tie can still breastfeed, those who undergo this procedure often experience better latching and feeding efficiency. For instance, studies show that 91% of infants without tongue-tie were still breastfeeding at two months, compared to 82% of those with untreated tongue-tie.
However, the effectiveness of frenotomy can vary. Some experts caution that not all cases of tongue-tie require surgical intervention. In fact, many breastfeeding difficulties can be resolved through proper positioning and attachment techniques, suggesting that a comprehensive approach to breastfeeding management may be sufficient for some families.
Mixed Evidence on Surgical Necessity
The debate surrounding the necessity of frenotomy is ongoing. While some studies highlight the benefits of the procedure, others argue that the increase in surgeries may be disproportionate to the actual need. A significant number of infants with tongue-tie continue to breastfeed successfully without surgical intervention, raising questions about whether the procedure is always warranted.
Moreover, the experiences of mothers indicate that the emotional and physical challenges of breastfeeding with a tongue-tied infant can be profound. Many report feelings of frustration and helplessness, which can be alleviated through supportive care from lactation consultants and healthcare providers.
Conclusion
In summary, fixing a tongue-tie through frenotomy can improve breastfeeding for some infants, particularly those who struggle with latching and feeding effectively. However, the decision to proceed with surgery should be made on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific challenges faced by the mother and child. A holistic approach that includes education, support, and skilled breastfeeding management may often yield positive results without the need for surgical intervention. As the conversation around tongue-tie continues to evolve, it remains crucial for parents to seek guidance from healthcare professionals to navigate their unique breastfeeding journeys.

Does tongue-tie release improve bottle feeding?

In a randomized controlled trial (RCT), he showed with a special bottle with a computerized nipple, that babies feed more efficiently, are better able to adapt to changes in feeding, and had more rhythmic and coordinated sucking after a proper posterior tongue-tie release. Moms also saw less nipple pain, were more …

Are babies more fussy after tongue-tie release?

Increased crankiness/crying/fussiness/sleepiness is very normal. Manage pain round the clock as needed and follow up with lactation consultant and/or Occupational Therapist trained to work with previously tongue-tied babies. White patch still visible. Normal for bleeding to occur during stretching, even into week 2.

Do babies sleep better after tongue-tie release?

Often after a frenectomy or tongue-tie release procedure, the patient will notice a deeper quality of sleep and the parents will notice less snoring, less movement, less waking, and better mood in their child.

When is it too late to fix a tongue-tie?

It’s usually never too late to get tongue-tie surgery. However, the sooner tongue-tie is corrected, the fewer possible side effects this condition will likely cause you.

How long does it take for a latch to improve after a tongue-tie?

In some cases, division of tongue-tie is all that is needed to improve feeding. in most cases it is not an instant fix and ongoing help and support is required, especially in the first 2-3 weeks. Full improvement in feeding can take 2-4 weeks and sometimes longer.

What is the effect of frenotomy for tongue-tie on improving breastfeeding?

CONCLUSIONS. After lingual frenotomy, the tongue-tied infants displayed changes in breastfeeding patterns – the number of sucks increased and the pause length between groups of sucking decreased – while the control group maintained the same breastfeeding patterns.

Does breastfeeding with a tongue-tie get easier?

After having a tongue tie divided some mums find things get easier quite quickly and others find it can take a while to improve. Support from a breastfeeding practitioner to adapt positioning and attachment can be useful and your baby might need some time to practice and adapt to a slightly different way of feeding.

Will tongue-tie release help breastfeeding?

Although attention to positioning and attachment can help maintain breastfeeding and improve comfort to a certain extent, there is evidence that treating tongue tie by frenotomy (see below) is effective in resolving breastfeeding difficulties. Weight gain can improve dramatically.

Does frenotomy effect breastfeeding and reflux?

Surgical release of the tethered oral tissues was shown to result in significant improvement of breastfeeding self-efficacy, nipple pain, and gastroesophageal reflux problems.

Does feeding get worse after tongue-tie release?

Commonly people see an improvement in latching and in feeding immediately after the procedure and for that day and maybe the following day. Often things then get worse again. This is normal and expected.