Lip and tongue releases are surprisingly common medical procedures. Doctors frequently administer them to babies and children, but adults who haven't previously gotten treatment may require care, too. Here are six things patients and families should know about the lip and tongue release procedure.

Safety

Generally, this is an outpatient procedure that's very safe compared to most other forms of medical work. A doctor usually uses a scalpel or scissors to release a piece of tissue that's creating tension on the lip or the tongue. Bleeding is usually minimal and manageable in a clinical setting. For the sake of sanitation and safety, though, only a qualified practitioner should perform tongue and lip releases.

Time

Most versions of these releases take only a few minutes. Typically, the patient can go home on the same day of the procedure.

Minimal Discomfort

The quality and precision of the cutting instruments mean that a patient shouldn't suffer severe pain. Local anesthetic is almost always sufficient for the job. Likewise, a doctor can recommend OTC medications to help a patient deal with any pain after the procedure.

Benefits

Tongue tie releases can help people who have speech or eating problems. Babies that are having trouble nursing, for example, often benefit from lip releases. They can maneuver their mouths better, and that allows them to nurse more fully and with less discomfort.

Some people who have extra tissue attached to their lips or tongue also experience sleep problems. This is especially true if they have existing breathing issues.

Recovery

Patients usually need a few days to recover. During this time, a doctor may tell the patient or their family to avoid certain foods. People who have had bleeding issues in the past may also need to avoid some strenuous activities.

Your doctor will instruct you on how to treat the affected area. Adults may rinse their mouths, for example. Parents may need to clean a baby's mouth.

Follow-Up

The main medical concern following the procedure is that the patient may develop an infection. Having a cut, even a minor one, in the mouth creates the potential for food and drinks to get into the affected area. You should monitor the patient for any signs of fever and contact a doctor if one develops. There is also a risk of bleeding. Otherwise, you should wait until the follow-up appointment and let a doctor check things out.

If there isn't an infection, a doctor's concern will be that the tissue is healing correctly. As long as the tongue or lip is moving freely, the doctor will likely give the all-clear after the first follow-up visit.