Bodywork team approach 

At MomSense, we believe that post-op care is one of the most important to have optimal success after a frenectomy. The baby must essentially learn to use his/her tongue a new way. There are times that babies do not need extra help after a release procedure and are able to breastfeed immediately, while other babies may need some additional help. 

Bodywork team approach

 

IBCLC Care

All of our infants are seen pre and post-procedure by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). The IBCLC provides feeding observation, latch/ position adjustment, and suck assessment. If warranted a pre and post-feeding weight check is done. The baby will then follow up with the IBCLC to help correct problems and improve breastfeeding. 


Tongue Therapy

A speech or developmental feeding therapist can help babies learn to use their tongues for more effective eating and speech. 


Tension Release

A craniosacral therapist, chiropractor, occupational (OT) or physical therapist (PT) can help babies to release tight muscles that have compensated for a tight frenulum or improper suck. 

Natural remedies

  • Breast milk ice chips can help with pain and healing. Freeze breast milk flat in a bag and break of little pieces to place directly under the tongue, lip, or check and let melt.

  • Bach Kids Rescue Remedy

  • Arnica Montana 30C — dissolve 15 pellets in 1 oz of breast milk or distilled water. Store in refrigerator and give 1 mL every hour that baby is awake the day of the procedure and then give 1 mL with stretches after day 1.

  • Organic coconut oil — Apply a small amount to wound areas 4-6 times a day with stretches.

Normal post-treatment occurrences 

  • Increased fussiness during the first week is normal. Be sure to use lots of skin-to-skin contact. This increases oxytocin levels, lowering pain sensitivity. 

  • Trouble with latch during the first week due to the initial soreness and re-learning suck, feedings may be inconsistent the first week. In some cases, latch or symptoms may worsen before they get better. It is important to continue to work with our IBCLCs for feeding-related issues. 

  • Increased choking and spitting up due to some babies having a harder time adjusting to an increased milk flow. This is usually temporary and should be talked about with your IBCLC. 

  • Increased sleeping may be due to medication, exhaustion, or that the infant is feeling better and is more satisfied. 

  • If you are still concerned you may call the office or text your IBCLC. 


When to call a provider (after hours please stay on the line to be connected to our answering service): 

Although rare, please do not hesitate to call the office (219) 232-6522 if you experience any of  the following: 

  • Fever greater than 101.5F 

  • Uncontrolled bleeding 

  • Refusal to feed from breast or bottle for over eight hours