Baby might need a frenuletomy?

brandyleighxx

My son is 6 days old. We're having trouble BFing b/c it physically hurts my nipple. After a lactation specialist did a home visit yesterday, she suggested a referral to ENT dr. for possible frenulectomy because his tongue is almost heart shaped and he pulls is back when suckling which is causing me pain. I took a 24 hour break from nursing to help heal my nipples but pumped and fed him breast milk via  finger tube (PITA).

Anyone words of wisdom on this matter? He has an appt. w/ pedi on Wed. where we'll discuss & possibly get referral.

tokenhoser

Get it done as soon as possible. It's quick, there are no nerves in that part of his tongue right now, and it can save breastfeeding for both of you. If you decline it (and he needs it, which it sounds pretty clear cut with the heart tongue), the pain will not stop and his latch may not be good enough to get enough milk.

At this age, it can solve things really quickly. Instantly, if you get lucky.

jlsimon56

Is this just a tongue tie?  If so, I would also get it done, asap. 

BuckeyeNut05

tokenhoser:

Get it done as soon as possible. It's quick, there are no nerves in that part of his tongue right now, and it can save breastfeeding for both of you. If you decline it and he needs it, which it sounds pretty clear cut with the heart tongue, the pain will not stop and his latch may not be good enough to get enough milk. At this age, it can solve things really quickly. Instantly, if you get lucky.

This. Our twin girls were both born tongue tied and we had it done in the hospital. They're much better off now.

violajack

Yes, do it now! My son's tongue tie wasn't caught until 3 weeks and fixed at 4 weeks. He's 7 weeks and my nipples are still cracked (but finally showing real progress healing) becuase he did so much damage in the first weeks. The sooner you can fix it, the better.