Frenectomy is a medical procedure that involves surgically cutting or trimming the connective tissue in the mouth and lip area called the frenulum.

What is Frenectomy?

Frenectomy of the Frenulum of the Tongue (Ankyloglossia): The tongue frenulum is the thin membrane-like tissue under the tongue. In the case of ankyloglossia or tongue tie problems, the tongue frenulum may be shorter or thicker than normal, restricting free movement of the tongue and causing speech and swallowing difficulties. Frenectomy aims to cut this connective tissue under the tongue to allow free movement of the tongue.

• Frenectomy of the Lip Frenulum: The lip frenulum is the connective tissue on the inside of the upper and lower lips. An excessively long or thick lip frenulum can have negative effects on tooth development. Excessive length of the frenulum of the upper lip, which is common in infants, can cause difficulties during sucking. Frenectomy aims to correct this condition and increase the ability to suck.
• Frenectomy of the Cheek Frenulum: The cheek frenulum on the inside of the cheeks can also be excessively long or thick. This can limit the movement of the tongue and lead to speech or swallowing problems. A frenectomy of the cheek frenulum is a surgical intervention to correct this connective tissue.

How is Frenectomy Performed?

Frenectomy is usually a simple surgical procedure and is usually performed under local anesthesia. During the procedure, the doctor carefully cuts or removes excessively long or thick frenulum. Frenectomy of the tongue frenulum can usually be completed within a short period of time and in most cases there is a marked improvement in symptoms immediately afterwards.

Frenectomies of the lip and cheek frenulum are usually performed in a similar manner. After the operation, simple guidelines and oral care instructions are given, which may take a few days to allow the patient to relax and begin the healing process.

Recovery Process After Frenectomy:

• Pain and Discomfort: Usually, mild pain or discomfort may be felt after the frenectomy. However, this is usually short-term and mildly transient.
• Soft Food Consumption: For some time after the procedure, patients should generally prefer soft foods. This supports the healing process and prevents damage to the wound site.
• Oral Care: It is important to take oral care according to the doctor's recommendations. This reduces the risk of infection and speeds up the healing process.
• Check Examinations: The doctor may ask for follow-up examinations at regular intervals after the frenectomy. During these examinations, the state of recovery is assessed and additional measures can be taken if necessary.
• Frenectomy and Breastfeeding Problems in Children: Tongue tie problems in babies can cause sucking difficulties. In this case, frenectomy can help babies to feed more effectively than their mothers. Although it is usually a simple procedure, it is recommended to be performed by a qualified health professional for the convenience of the baby and the parent.

Frenectomy is an effective method of surgical correction of the frenulum in the mouth and lip area. This surgical intervention can be performed to relieve or eliminate symptoms where the frenulum of The tongue, lips or cheeks is excessively long or thick. The most appropriate treatment plan for each patient should be created by the doctor assessing the patient's condition and tailoring it to individual needs.