What is a Tongue Tie ?

Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia) is a genetic anomaly where the frenulum (the strip of skin connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is  short and thick.  This typically results in the tongue movement being restricted, which can impact infant feeding. It effects up to 10% of newborns  (although only half of cases require division) and is more prevalent in boys.

Tongue Tie is not always obvious and can only be diagnosed by a Specialist Tongue Tie Practitioner using evidence based, diagnostic assessment tools.

At The Tongue Tie Clinic we use two assessment tools which not only look at the appearance of the tongue but assesses the tongue function, which is so important for efficient feeding in both breast and bottle fed babies.

If a tongue tie is diagnosed a simple frenulotomy (tongue tie division)  can be performed which helps in the majority of cases. More information can be found by clicking here.
 

If a tongue tie is causing restricted tongue movement and impacting infant feeding, a frenulotomy can be performed at our clinic.

 

It is a simple, minor surgical procedure which is carried out by a specially trained Tongue Tie Practitioner.

 

It involves lifting and dividing the lingual frenulum with surgical scissors to release the tongue.

 

This procedure takes about a minute and babies usually recovery quickly and only cry for a few seconds. 

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Is it effective? 

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Studies have been undertaken to examine the effectiveness of frenulotomy for feeding difficulties and there are indications that it can improve breastfeeding (Berry et al, 2012 and Hogan et al , 2005), reduce nipple pain (Buryk et al, 2011) and improve latching (O'Callahan, 2013).  Infant feeding issues can be multifactorial and frenulotomy alone might not be a "quick fix". This is why it is vital to receive specialised infant feeding assessment and support before and after the procedure. 

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Are there any risks?

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There  are no major safety concerns with Frenulotomy (National Institute of Clinical Excellence,  2005) and the latest statistics from the Association of Tongue Tie Practitioners (ATP) in 2023 show that excessive bleeding occurred in 0.02% of cases and infection  in 0.1%. 

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Can it reattach?

 

In 2.5 % of cases, scar tissue can tether the tongue again which can results in re-emerging feeding issues. If this occurs a re-division can be performed after 4 weeks if necessary at a charge of £100 (£80 if re-assessed and no division required).

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