Treatment
Surgery is seldom necessary but if it is needed, it involves cutting the abnormally placed tissue. If the child has a mild case of tongue tie, the surgery may be done in the doctor’s office. More severe cases are done in a hospital operating room. A surgical reconstruction procedure called a z-plasty closure may be required to prevent scar tissue formation.
Prognosis (Expectations)
Surgery, if performed, is usually successful.
Complications
The complications are rare, but recurrence of tongue tie, tongue swelling, bleeding, infection, and damage to the ducts of the salivary glands may occur.
Calling Your Health Care Provider
If you are concerned that your child may have tongue tie, have your health care provider examine it during a routine well-baby examination.
Pictures & Images
Oropharynx
Food passes from the mouth to the oropharynx (back of the throat) to the esophagus.
Review Date : 11/2/2009
Reviewed By : Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
