Understanding Tongue Tie and Why It Requires Treatment
Tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the strip of tissue beneath the tongue is shorter or tighter than usual. This restricts tongue movement and can lead to a range of issues, including difficulty with breastfeeding in infants, speech challenges in children, and oral function problems in adults. Modern London head and neck surgery clinics offer safe and effective treatment options to improve function and comfort for patients of all ages.
Tongue tie surgery, often performed as a frenotomy or frenuloplasty depending on the severity, is a straightforward procedure with high success rates. Understanding each step helps patients feel confident about what will happen before, during, and after tongue tie surgery in London clinics.
Preparing for Tongue Tie Surgery
Proper preparation ensures smooth treatment and recovery. Clinics typically provide clear guidance based on the patient’s age, symptoms, and medical background.
Initial Consultation
During the first appointment, the surgeon will:
- Assess the degree of restriction
- Discuss symptoms and functional concerns
- Review medical history
- Outline treatment options
- Explain the expected results and recovery timeline
Parents of infants will receive additional guidance on feeding support, while adults may discuss speech difficulties, oral discomfort, or mobility limitations.
Pre-Surgery Instructions
Before the procedure, London head and neck specialists may advise patients to:
- Avoid certain foods or drinks for a short period before treatment
- Pause medications that could increase bleeding risk
- Prepare for feeding or speech therapy follow-up in infants or children
- Arrange transport home if sedation is used
Every clinic follows its own protocol, but the goal is to ensure the patient is safe, comfortable, and well-informed.
How Tongue Tie Surgery Works
London clinics use two main approaches for tongue-tie surgery: frenotomy and frenuloplasty. The surgeon will choose the method based on the severity of the restriction and the patient’s age.
Frenotomy
A frenotomy is a quick and simple procedure often performed on infants:
- The surgeon uses sterile scissors or a laser to release the tight tissue.
- The process takes only a few seconds.
- Babies may feed immediately after the procedure, which helps with comfort and healing.
This method is suitable for mild to moderate cases and requires minimal aftercare.
Frenuloplasty
Doctors use frenuloplasty for more complex cases, especially in older children or adults:
- Local anaesthesia is applied to ensure comfort.
- The surgeon releases and reshapes the tissue to allow greater tongue movement.
- Dissolvable stitches may be used to support the new shape.
This method provides more extensive correction and addresses deeper restrictions effectively.
Use of Laser Technology
Some London clinics offer laser-assisted procedures, which may:
- Minimise bleeding
- Reduce postoperative discomfort
- Shorten procedure time
However, trained head and neck surgeons consider both traditional and laser methods safe and effective.
What Happens During the Procedure
Understanding the procedure process can help reduce anxiety and set realistic expectations.
Arrival and Preparation
On the day of the surgery:
- Patients or parents arrive early for assessment and paperwork.
- The surgeon reviews the plan and answers any last-minute questions.
- Infants may be asked to feed beforehand, depending on clinic protocol.
- For older patients, local anaesthesia is administered to ensure comfort.
The Surgical Process
The surgery typically follows these steps:
- The surgeon exposes the frenulum beneath the tongue.
- A precise cut is made to release or reshape the tissue.
- Bleeding is usually minimal and controlled quickly.
- Stitches may be added for frenuloplasty procedures.
The entire procedure usually lasts between a few seconds to 20 minutes, depending on complexity.
After the Procedure
Patients are observed briefly to ensure comfort and safety.
- Infants often feed immediately after surgery.
- Older patients may be given instructions for oral exercises.
- Most are able to return home the same day.
Recovery After Tongue Tie Surgery
Healing after tongue tie surgery is generally quick, especially in infants, but proper aftercare can improve comfort and outcomes.
Healing Timeline
- Infants: Most heal within a few days, with improvements in feeding occurring rapidly.
- Children and Adults: Mild discomfort may last a few days, and healing typically completes within 1–2 weeks.
Managing Pain and Discomfort
- Over-the-counter pain relief may be recommended for older patients.
- Cold foods or drinks can soothe soreness in children and adults.
- Babies may be fussier temporarily but usually settle quickly.
Post-Surgery Exercises
Many surgeons recommend oral stretching exercises to:
- Prevent reattachment
- Improve tongue mobility
- Support better feeding or speech
These exercises are gentle and tailored to age and ability.
Feeding or Speech Support
- Infants may require lactation support to improve latch and feeding technique.
- Older children and adults may benefit from speech therapy to optimise tongue function.
Combining surgery with functional therapy often provides the best long-term results.
Benefits of Tongue Tie Surgery
The procedure offers meaningful improvements for patients experiencing functional limitations.
For Infants
- Improved breastfeeding
- Better latch and reduced maternal discomfort
- Increased weight gain
- More efficient feeding patterns
For Children and Adults
- Enhanced speech clarity
- Improved tongue mobility
- Reduced discomfort during eating or speaking
- Better oral hygiene ability
The benefits depend on the degree of restriction and the patient’s needs, but many experience significant improvements shortly after treatment.
When to Contact Your Surgeon
While complications are rare, patients should contact their London clinic if they notice:
- Excessive bleeding
- Increasing pain or swelling
- Persistent feeding difficulties
- Foul odour or signs of infection
- Reattachment of the frenulum
Prompt communication ensures concerns are addressed quickly.
Final Thoughts
Tongue tie surgery is a straightforward and effective procedure offered by experienced London head and neck surgery specialists. Whether performed as a simple frenotomy or a more detailed frenuloplasty, the treatment aims to improve tongue movement, comfort, and overall function. Understanding each stage—from consultation to recovery—helps patients or parents feel confident and prepared. With proper care and follow-up support, tongue tie surgery in London can lead to safer feeding, clearer speech, and improved daily comfort for patients of all ages.
