Does a lip tie affect bottle feeding efficiency?

A lip tie can make bottle feeding harder because the upper lip can’t move well. This can cause a poor seal around the nipple of the bottle. As a result, the baby may take in extra air and less milk. This can make the baby gassy, uncomfortable, and need more frequent, shorter feeds.

Can a lip tie cause reflux or spit-up issues in babies?

A lip tie can cause a poor latch and extra air swallowing. This can lead to gas, bloating, and spit-up, making your baby fussy or seem to have reflux after feeds.

Can a lip tie recur after a frenectomy?

The chances of a lip tie recurring after a frenectomy are less; however, in some cases, it may return.

Can lip tie cause speech problems later in childhood?

Yes, a lip tie can sometimes affect speech later in childhood. It may limit upper lip movement, causing muffled speech or difficulty with sounds that need clear lip motion. If you notice this, talk to your paediatrician or a speech-language pathologist for guidance.

Lip Tie in Babies: Causes, Signs, and Treatment Options

A lip tie is when the tissue connecting your baby’s upper lip to the gums is tight, thick, or stiff. This can make breastfeeding harder for some babies, as it becomes difficult for the baby to move their upper lip freely. Many babies with lip ties feed normally. But if your baby struggles, it can be stressful for both of you. The good news is that a lip tie is easy to identify and often simple to treat.

What is a Lip Tie?

The tissue behind the upper lip is called the frenulum. When this frenulum becomes too stiff or thick, it can prevent the lip from moving freely. This condition is called a lip tie. A lip tie can make it difficult for the baby to breastfeed effectively. However, a lip tie is not a major cause of concern if your baby is feeding well and gaining weight.

How to Identify a Lip Tie?

If your baby has a lip tie, they may show certain signs that may include:

Difficulty latching onto the breast
Falling asleep often during feeding
Fussiness or fatigue during feeds
Trouble breathing while feeding
Making a clicking sound while nursing
Poor or slow weight gain

You may also notice that your baby’s upper lip does not lift easily or seems tight.

How is a Lip Tie Diagnosed?

If you suspect a lip tie, speak with a paediatrician, lactation consultant, or paediatric dentist.

To diagnose lip tie, your doctor will perform a checkup where they may:

Watch your baby feed
Check how well your baby latches
Look for symptoms like milk spitting, choking, or cluster feeding

How Does Lip Tie Affect Breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is difficult. While it is normal for your nipples to feel sore when feeding your baby, it is important not to ignore severe pain. If your baby has a lip tie, you may experience:

Pain while feeding your baby
Breast problems like blocked ducts, engorgement, or mastitis
Problems with your milk supply (too much or too little milk)
Nipple damage (sore or cracked nipples)
Fatigue from frequent nursing

NOTE: If you notice any of these problems while breastfeeding, speak to your healthcare provider.

What are the Future Complications of a Lip Tie?

Most lip ties do not cause serious problems later. However, untreated lip ties may:

Make eating certain foods harder as your child grows
Increase the risk of dental problems, such as tooth decay, if milk or food collects behind the upper teeth
Possibly cause a gap between the front teeth

How is Lip Tie Treated in Babies and Toddlers?

The treatments available for lip tie in babies and toddlers include:
Conservative Management
Mild lip ties (Levels 1 and 2) often do not need surgery. In case of a mild lip tie, your doctor may suggest:

Adjusting breastfeeding positions
Using nipple shields
Expressing milk or pumping to maintain supply
Bottle-feeding pumped breastmilk or formula if needed

A lactation consultant can guide you on improving latch and comfort.

Frenectomy (Surgical Procedure)
For severe lip ties (Levels 3 and 4), a frenectomy may be recommended.

The procedure is quick and outpatient
A laser or surgical scissors is used to release the frenulum
No general anaesthesia is usually needed
Babies can often breastfeed immediately afterwards
Stretching exercises may be needed afterwards to prevent the tissue from reattaching

Studies show that frenectomy can significantly improve breastfeeding, sometimes immediately.

How to Feed a Baby with a Lip Tie?

You can use the following tips to feed a baby with a lip tie:

Trying different breastfeeding positions
Check and ensure your baby is latched deeply
Pump or hand-express breastmilk to feed your baby
Use a nipple shield if needed
Breastfeed the baby as many times and as frequently as possible

NOTE: Seek help from a lactation consultant if you find difficulty in following any of the above given tips.

When to Talk to Your Doctor?

See your healthcare provider if your baby:

Struggles to latch properly
Has poor or slow weight gain
Shows signs of fatigue or frustration while feeding
Causes you pain or repeated nipple damage during breastfeeding

Lip ties may sound technical, but they are common and usually not dangerous. Many babies with lip tie feed well without requiring any medical intervention. If your baby struggles, there are safe and effective ways to help. Conservative strategies or a simple frenectomy can improve feeding and comfort. Trust your instincts and speak to your paediatrician or lactation consultant if you have concerns. With the right guidance, both you and your baby can have an easy breastfeeding experience.

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FAQs on How is Lip Tie in Newborn Babies Treated?

Does a lip tie affect bottle feeding efficiency?
A lip tie can make bottle feeding harder because the upper lip can’t move well. This can cause a poor seal around the nipple of the bottle. As a result, the baby may take in extra air and less milk. This can make the baby gassy, uncomfortable, and need more frequent, shorter feeds.
Can a lip tie cause reflux or spit-up issues in babies?
A lip tie can cause a poor latch and extra air swallowing. This can lead to gas, bloating, and spit-up, making your baby fussy or seem to have reflux after feeds.
Can a lip tie recur after a frenectomy?
The chances of a lip tie recurring after a frenectomy are less; however, in some cases, it may return.
Can lip tie cause speech problems later in childhood?
Yes, a lip tie can sometimes affect speech later in childhood. It may limit upper lip movement, causing muffled speech or difficulty with sounds that need clear lip motion. If you notice this, talk to your paediatrician or a speech-language pathologist for guidance.