Parents are often uncertain if a frenectomy is really necessary for their child and worried that once the procedure is completed, it can not be undone. It is often difficult to get another experienced opinion when frustrated with feeding difficulties and aware that something must improve. Many parents tell us they wish they would have gotten an experienced second opinion prior to surgery. Some of the potential drawbacks to a frenectomy include:
When surgical correction is considered, all the benefits and drawbacks should be evaluated. Often, a shorten frenulum is not the primary cause of a feeding difficulty. Our extensive experience with this procedure can help guide you to the best choice for you and your child.
There are a variety of symptoms in tongue-tied patients and feeding and swallowing therapy is necessary after surgical intevention. Therapy will shorten the time and frustration for the patient when surgery without therapy often proves to be unsuccessful. Often treatment is needed to adjust proper tongue function to the newly increased range of motion. Without proper post-surgery treatment, the frenulum may reattach and become more restrictive than prior to surgery. The highest rate of success after a frenectomy, is with specialized therapy.