What is Tongue-Tie / Frenectomy?
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is a condition in which the thin band of tissue under the tongue (the lingual frenum) is short, tight or attached too far forward. This can limit how freely the tongue moves. A similar band can tie the upper lip to the gum (lip-tie). Many people with a mild tie have no problems at all, so not every tie needs treatment.
Common symptoms
- Difficulty lifting the tongue or poking it past the lower lip
- A heart-shaped or notched tongue tip when extended
- Feeding difficulties in some infants (assessed together with the paediatrician or lactation advisor)
- Certain speech sounds that are hard to form, where a speech therapist suspects a tie
- Difficulty cleaning teeth with the tongue, or a gap between the front teeth linked to a lip-tie
When to seek an assessment
Seek an assessment if tongue movement seems restricted and it is affecting feeding, speech, oral hygiene or comfort. The decision to treat is based on function, not appearance alone.
The role of an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
An Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon is trained in the anatomy of the mouth, tongue and floor of mouth. This allows the frenum to be released precisely while protecting nearby structures such as salivary ducts, nerves and blood vessels.
Diagnosis and assessment
Assessment includes looking at how the tongue moves and how that affects feeding, speech or hygiene. For infants and children, the plan is often made together with parents, paediatricians or speech and language therapists.
Treatment options
The options below are a general overview. The right approach for you depends on your examination, imaging and any biopsy or pathology findings.
Observation and advice
Where function is good, no surgery may be needed. Reassessment can be arranged if concerns change.
Frenotomy / frenectomy
A short procedure, usually under local anaesthesia, to release or remove the tight band. Dissolvable stitches may be used.
Frenuloplasty
For thicker or more complex ties, the tissue may be released and repositioned to reduce the chance of re-attachment.
Supportive therapy
Tongue exercises or speech therapy may be advised after release to help the tongue use its new range of movement.
Recovery and aftercare
- Mild soreness for a few days, usually managed with simple pain relief as advised
- Soft foods and gentle rinsing while the area heals
- Tongue stretching exercises if recommended, to reduce re-attachment
- A review visit to check healing
You will receive specific aftercare instructions for your procedure.
Referral and multidisciplinary care
Where problems are mainly with breastfeeding or speech, input from a lactation consultant, paediatrician or speech and language therapist is often valuable, and referral may be arranged alongside or instead of surgery.
This page provides general information and is not a substitute for a personal consultation. Outcomes vary between individuals.