The American Academy of Pediatrics recently issued a warning regarding the overuse of tongue-tie surgeries in children, particularly for breastfeeding problems. The report stated that the majority of breastfeeding issues are not caused by infant tongue-ties, and the procedure should only be recommended for infants with severely tethered tongues.
Dr. Jennifer Thomas, a pediatrician from Wisconsin and lead author of the report, expressed concern over the increasing number of parents opting for tongue-tie releases without a clear medical need. She emphasized that many families are paying significant amounts for a procedure that is often unnecessary.
The report highlighted the lack of evidence supporting the widespread use of tongue-tie surgeries and raised awareness about the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure. While serious complications are rare, some doctors have reported cases where babies experienced pain, feeding difficulties, dehydration, and airway obstruction post-surgery.
The issue of overuse of tongue-tie surgeries has gained attention following a significant rise in procedures over the past decade. The report urged healthcare providers to carefully evaluate the necessity of the procedure and only recommend it for infants with severe tongue-ties that significantly impact their ability to breastfeed.
It is essential for parents to seek guidance from healthcare professionals and carefully weigh the risks and benefits before deciding on a tongue-tie release for their child. By raising awareness about the potential pitfalls of unnecessary surgeries, the American Academy of Pediatrics aims to prevent overuse and ensure that infants receive appropriate care based on medical necessity.
