27/10/2025
Encouraged to see comprehensive tongue tie coverage in the Irish Times today.
Ankyloglossia affects up to 1 in 10 newborns, yet significant gaps remain in understanding its functional impact. Whilst this article highlights many crucial aspects, we respectfully differ on some clinical perspectives.
Our clinical experience tells a different story: When true functional tongue tie exists, successful breastfeeding without intervention is uncommon. If feeding appears to be going well, either the restriction isn’t functionally significant, or compensatory mechanisms are masking underlying dysfunction - which often shows up in other ways later on.
Proper assessment must look at both mother and baby. Lactation support is the important initial treatment approach, not just the primary one. And when frenotomy is indicated, comprehensive pre- and post-operative management isn’t optional - it’s essential.
Here’s what families need to understand: The physical release is only a fraction of what’s actually required for successful outcomes. Babies develop compensatory movement patterns that stick around even after the restriction is released. Without skilled bodywork, feeding therapy, and motor retraining, surgical sites often heal with suboptimal tissue quality.
This is precisely why some families report minimal improvement despite having had the procedure - the neuromuscular dysfunction needs dedicated rehabilitation.
We’re pleased this coverage is increasing public awareness and helping families identify feeding difficulties earlier. When people understand that tongue tie treatment extends beyond “snip and send home,” outcomes improve significantly.
📖 Full newspaper article available on our website via the link in our bio!
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