Labial Frenectomy
A labial frenectomy is a procedure performed to remove the frenum or frenulum, a small piece of tissue between the lip and front teeth. An abnormal frenum can cause pain when the patient eats and speaks and can even cause gum recession. There are a number of reasons a labial frenectomy may be necessary including:
- To treat lip tie
- Difficulties eating or speaking
- Gums recession
- To improve bite function
- Difficulty nursing (in babies)
- To improve cosmetic appearance
- In case of difficulty in wearing dentures or fitting braces; or, when the dentures are getting frequently dislodged
How is a labial frenectomy performed?
There are a few different options available for a labial frenectomy. The traditional method uses a surgical knife or scalpel to remove the frenulum tissue under local anesthesia. Dissolvable or removable sutures are used to close the incision site.
More modern methods take advantage of lasers and electrocautery. Both are used with local anesthetic and do not require sutures.
How long does a labial frenectomy procedure take?
It takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the method used. The actual frenectomy may only take a few minutes but from start to finish, it could be an hour. A local anesthetic is administered at the surgery site before the surgery is performed.
What are possible risk factors of a labial frenectomy?
No surgery is without risks but there are a number of factors that may increase your risk of complications. These include:
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Advanced age
- Hypertension
- Malnutrition
Pre-existing medical conditons can also play a role in a patient’s abillity to tolerate the procedure without complication.
Such conditions may include:
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Poorly functioning kidneys, liver, or lung function
- Bleeding disorders
- Autoimmune disorders
- Poor immune system
Risks or complications that may arise during a labial frenectomy procedure include:
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection at the surgery site
- Complications from the anesthesia
- Damage to surrounding soft tissues
- Nerve damage
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
After a labial frenectomy, your home care will need some minor adjustments. It is important to keep the surgery site clean using gauze and your mouth clean using a soft bristled toothbrush and floss. Some directions you may receive from your doctor include:
- Use ice packs to relieve pain and swelling
- Pain medication may be prescribed
- Rinse with saltwater 2-3 times per day for a few days
- Take any antibiotics prescribed in full to avoid infection
- A diet of clear liquids for one day following surgery, then soft foods for 3-5 days
Contact your physician if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Worsening pain and swelling at the surgery site
- Bleeding or drainage from the wound
- Swollen gums or lips
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache or dizziness
- Fever
Full recovery following a labial frenectomy can take up to a week but healing time is significantly reduced if your doctor uses a soft tissue laser or electrocautery.