Tongue tie (ankyloglossia) is a congenital difference where the band of tissue beneath the tongue (the lingual frenulum) is unusually short, tight or thick. This restriction can limit how the tongue lifts, extends and moves side-to-side, which for some babies makes it harder to create and maintain an effective seal during feeding.
Frenulotomy is considered when:
For many families, improving tongue mobility can reduce pain, enhance transfer and shorten feeds. Outcomes vary because feeding is multifactorial; we pair any treatment with practical feeding support for best results.
Note: These can also occur without a tongue tie. That’s why expert assessment is essential before any treatment.
After booking, we’ll send a brief questionnaire (and optional request for a short photo/video) to understand feeding patterns, latch comfort and prior support.
Observation of a feed (breast or bottle) and latch/position check
Oral examination of the frenulum and tongue function (lift, extension, lateralisation)
Classification (e.g., anterior vs posterior tie) and clinical relevance
Aseptic preparation; no stitches required
Quick division of the frenulum (seconds)
Immediate post-procedure feed to soothe and assess latch/milk transfer
Bleeding check and observation before discharge
Written guidance on what to expect (e.g., normal white healing patch under the tongue)
Practical feeding tips and when to seek advice
Follow-up call/message to check healing and feeding progress; review available if needed
Age criteria & anaesthesia: In-clinic division is typically considered for young infants (exact age/weight/clinical criteria applied by the clinician). Older babies/children may require an ENT assessment first and, if needed, a procedure under local or general anaesthesia in an appropriate setting. We’ll guide you.
Consider an assessment if you notice:
A specialist will assess tongue function during feeding—not just what it looks like.
No. Some babies compensate well. We start with a skilled assessment and feeding optimisation (positioning, latch). If function remains restricted and feeding is affected, a frenulotomy may be recommended.
Babies typically cry for seconds—often from handling/swaddling rather than pain. Some clinicians may use topical/local anaesthetic based on age and clinical judgement. Immediate feeding after the procedure provides soothing and helps with latch.
Frenulotomy is generally safe when performed by trained clinicians. Possible risks include minor bleeding, transient discomfort, ulcer formation, and infection (rare). Re-attachment or need for re-division is uncommon but can occur. We provide clear aftercare to reduce these risks.
The visible frenulum may become less tight as the child grows, and some feeding issues improve with support. However, if a significant functional restriction is causing ongoing feeding difficulty, early assessment and, if indicated, treatment can be beneficial.
Frenulotomy addresses a mechanical restriction. Breastfeeding is multifactorial—positioning, latch, supply, infant stamina and maternal comfort all matter. Many families report meaningful improvements post-division, especially alongside skilled feeding support, but outcomes vary.
Some parents notice immediate improvement in latch comfort and milk transfer; others see progressive gains over several days as baby relearns tongue elevation and seal. Continued feeding support helps consolidate results.
Pre-visit questionnaire to streamline your appointment
Feeding observation (breast or bottle) and functional tongue assessment
Clear, shared decision-making with risks/benefits explained
Same-day treatment (under-6-months) when indicated and safe
Immediate post-procedure feed and observation before discharge
Written aftercare guidance and routine follow-up check-in
The £265 fee still applies. It covers your specialist assessment, feeding observation, diagnosis, and a tailored plan. We only proceed to treatment when a functionally significant restriction is confirmed.
No. For babies under 6 months, the £265 covers the service in our Newcastle clinic, including the procedure when performed. For adults, the £250 procedure fee explicitly covers local anaesthetic and consumables. If a hospital setting or general anaesthetic is required (e.g., select older children), we’ll provide a clear quote first.
Absolutely. Not every tie requires treatment. You can book a Tongue Tie Assessment for diagnostic clarity, feeding advice, and a plan—even if division isn’t performed.
(We’ll advise on any current guidance regarding post-division stretching or exercises.)
