WOUND MANAGEMENT
STRETCHES
The main risk of a frenotomy is that the mouth heals so quickly that it may prematurely reattach at either the tongue site or the lip site, causing a new limitation in mobility and the persistence or return of symptoms. The exercises demonstrated below are best done with the baby placed in your lap (or lying on a bed) with the feet going away from you.
Post-procedure stretches are the key to getting an optimal result. These stretches are NOT meant to be forceful or prolonged. It's best to be quick and precise with your movements.
You may use Tylenol, Ibuprofen (if 6 months of age or older), arnica, Rescue Remedy or other measures to help with pain control.
DAY OF SURGERY: DO ONE STRETCH ON THE EVENING OF SURGERY.
DAY AFTER SURGERY: STRETCHES SHOULD BE DONE 3-5 X PER DAY FOR THE FIRST 3 WEEKS. DIAPER CHANGES ARE A GOOD TIME TO DO THE EXERCISES.
SUCKING EXERCISES
These exercises should be playful and enjoyable for your child. Try to sing a song or find a strategy to relax your child.
STARTING SEVERAL DAYS AFTER THE PROCEDURE, THE WOUND(S) WILL LOOK WHITE AND/OR YELLOW. THIS IS NORMAL HEALING.
FOLLOW-UP WITH YOUR LACTATION CONSULTANT AFTER THE PROCEDURE TO ENSURE OPTIMAL RESULTS.
CALL OUR OFFICE FOR ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:
We provide emergency phone consultation services after working hours and on weekends. Call us at our office (781) 474-7865