What to Expect at Your Baby’s Frenulotomy Appointment

You will be welcomed into one of our comfortable clinic rooms where a full history will be taken, including a relevant medical history and family history, a full feeding history (breast and bottle) including any problems and any relevant birth details.

An oral assessment of your baby's tongue will take place. This is very gentle, using a gloved finger to check the function and appearance of your baby's tongue. It will then be determined if your baby needs a tongue tie division. If so, consent will be obtained, payment will be taken prior to the procedure and the tongue tie division will then immediately take place.

A feeding assessment and observation will take place post procedure. Feeding support will be given and a feeding plan put in place if needed.

Before the Appointment

• Feeding: Ideally you should avoid feeding for 1 to 2 hours before the appointment, if possible, so your baby can feed immediately post procedure. This is not essential if this is not possible.

• Comfort items: Bring your usual feeding supplies (breastfeeding pillow if needed, nipple shields, bottle, pumped milk or formula), as well as diapers, wipes and your usual baby bag of necessities.

  
  

During the Procedure

• Positioning: Your baby will be gently swaddled or held securely to keep them safe and still.

• The release: The frenulotomy itself is very quick, usually just a few seconds.

• Discomfort: Babies often cry briefly, mostly from being held still rather than pain. The procedure is over before many parents realise it has started.

  
  

Immediately After

• Bleeding: A small amount of bleeding is normal and typically stops quickly.

• Feeding right away: You will be encouraged to feed your baby immediately after the procedure. This helps with comfort and allows you to notice any improvement in latch or feeding.

• Soothing: Most babies calm down rapidly once they are feeding or being held.

  
  

In the Days Following

• Feeding changes: Some babies improve immediately, while others take days or weeks to adjust as they relearn how to use their tongue.

• Fussiness: Mild discomfort, increased crying or changes in sleep can occur for a few days.

• Support: Follow-up support is sometimes needed for feeding.

  
  

Reassurance for Parents

It’s normal to feel nervous. A frenulotomy is a brief, commonly performed procedure and most babies recover quickly. I am are here to support both you and your baby every step of the way.