Post Frenectomy Wound Care

Wound care after an infant frenectomy is important to ensure proper healing, prevent complications, and maximize the benefits of the procedure.  Without proper post-procedure care, the surgical site can heal improperly, leading to reattachment of the tissue, discomfort, or limited tongue mobility.  The goal is for the wound to heal slowly and unrestricted.

Work with your lactation consultant and release provider to help monitor healing and provide guidance on frequency of wound care stretches.  Be sure to contact your provider as soon as possible if there are any concerns about the appearance of the wound.  The wound will turn white a few days after the procedure, this is normal.  

 

Wound care for the lip:

Sit behind your baby so that you are overhead, lift the lip up over the nose to create separation of the diamond.

 

 

Wound Care for the Tongue:

Here are two options for technique.

 

	Sit behind your baby so that you are overhead, lift the tongue up while pushing the lower gum/jaw down to create separation of the diamond.  Try using the thumb from one hand on the bottom gum with the index finger of the other hand to lift the tongue.  Any finger options will work as long as you are creating separation.
	Sit behind your baby so that you are overhead, lift the tongue up while pushing down on the chin to create separation of the diamond.  When using your two index fingers, aim for the top of the diamond to pull the tongue up with your fingers.