A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure to release a frenum, a small band of tissue connecting the lip to the gum (labial) or the tongue to the floor of the mouth (lingual). It corrects “tongue-tie” or “lip-tie” that restricts movement and causes issues with feeding, speech, or dental development. Although the idea of oral surgery may cause concern, the procedure is quick, lasting only a few minutes. Pain is actively prevented during the procedure; the primary concern for most patients is the discomfort experienced during the healing phase.
Understanding the Procedure and Immediate Pain Prevention
Pain is prevented during the frenectomy using anesthetic methods tailored to the patient’s age. For older children and adults, a local anesthetic is injected directly into the frenum area, completely numbing the site. The patient may feel pressure or movement during the procedure but no sharp pain.
For infants, the procedure is swift, often lasting one or two minutes, meaning a full local anesthetic injection may be unnecessary. Practitioners often use a topical numbing gel, sometimes combined with a small amount of local anesthetic. Techniques include using a scalpel/scissors or a soft-tissue laser. Laser frenectomy seals blood vessels and nerve endings as it cuts, which minimizes bleeding and may reduce immediate post-operative soreness compared to traditional methods.
Discomfort During Recovery
Although the procedure is painless due to anesthesia, discomfort begins once the numbing agents wear off. This post-operative soreness signals the start of healing, and its intensity varies with the patient’s age. For most patients, the most intense discomfort occurs in the first 24 to 48 hours following the procedure.
In infants, discomfort is expressed through behavioral changes, such as increased fussiness, crying, and disrupted sleep. Soreness may cause temporary struggles with latching or bottle feeding due to the newly acquired range of motion. The wound site, whether under the tongue or lip, will form a white or yellowish patch. This is a normal sign of healing, not an infection, but it can be tender.
Older children and adults describe the discomfort as a burning sensation, aching, or generalized soreness at the surgical site, similar to a minor abrasion. Swelling is common, usually peaking around the third day before subsiding. While peak soreness occurs within the first two days, significant discomfort resolves entirely within three to five days, with complete healing occurring over a couple of weeks.
Managing Post-Procedure Discomfort
Managing discomfort after a frenectomy involves pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen, are the standard recommendation. These must be administered at the correct, weight-appropriate dosage as advised by the practitioner. It is recommended to administer the first dose of pain medication shortly after the procedure, before the local anesthetic fully wears off, to ensure a smoother transition into recovery.
Non-pharmacological strategies provide significant relief, especially for infants. Applying a cold compress or offering soothing, cool foods and liquids helps reduce swelling and numb the area. For babies, this includes frozen breast milk chips or chilled teething toys.
A crucial component of recovery is performing prescribed stretching or massage exercises, which prevent the tissue from reattaching. These exercises may cause temporary, mild irritation, but they are essential for long-term success and improved mobility. During the initial days, patients should adhere to a soft, cool, and non-acidic diet, avoiding anything crunchy, spicy, or hot that could irritate the wound site.