Lip Tie Laser Surgery vs. Scissor Frenectomy: Which Is Best?

Lip tie laser surgery can sound like a modern, gentler option, while a scissor frenectomy often feels simpler and more familiar. Both approaches aim to release a restrictive upper labial frenulum when symptoms and clinical findings support treatment. A pediatric dental evaluation should focus on function first, since many frenula look prominent but cause no problems. The best choice depends on anatomy, goals, provider training, and the child’s overall feeding and oral health picture.

When an upper lip tie matters and when it does not

The tissue that connects the upper lip to the gumline varies widely among infants and children. A pediatric dentist looks beyond appearance and evaluates signs such as persistent latch difficulty, lip curling under during feeding, poor milk transfer, maternal pain, or poor weight gain, while also considering other causes. A thorough exam always includes checking for a tongue tie (ankyloglossia), since lip ties and tongue ties often co-occur. Professional guidelines note a rise in frenulum procedures and encourage evidence-based decision-making to avoid unnecessary or poorly timed treatment.

In many cases, a team-based assessment that includes lactation support can clarify whether the frenulum truly drives symptoms. When symptoms improve with positioning, latch coaching, or other feeding strategies, surgery may not offer added value.

What each procedure actually does

A scissor frenectomy uses sterile scissors to clip or excise restrictive tissue, often in a quick office visit. Clinicians may apply pressure, gauze, or other methods to control bleeding, and in some cases, sutures may be required depending on the cut and anatomy. A laser-based approach uses a dental or surgical laser to release the tissue with focused energy. Many clinicians choose lip tie laser surgery because the laser can cut precisely and coagulate small blood vessels during the release, which often reduces bleeding in the operative field.

Pros and cons to compare quickly

Pros of lip tie laser surgery

• Precision and visibility: Can support fine control when tissue thickness varies or when the provider works near delicate structures.

• Less bleeding in the field: Laser energy can seal small vessels during the release, which often reduces visible bleeding.

• Sutures may be less likely in select cases: Some providers can complete the release without sutures, depending on the anatomy and technique.

• Return to feeding routines can be smooth with support: Best results often occur when the release pairs with skilled feeding guidance and clear aftercare.

Cons and risks of lip tie laser surgery

• Technique-sensitive: Energy settings and method matter, since excess heat can injure adjacent tissues.

• Training and case selection are critical: Complications can occur when releases are poorly indicated or performed without appropriate expertise.

• Reattachment and discomfort remain possible: Pain, swelling, or reattachment can still occur, particularly when aftercare proves difficult or when symptoms have another root cause.

Pros of scissor frenectomy

• Long-standing clinical use: Scissor techniques remain common in infant frenotomy and pediatric settings.

• Accessibility: Requires less specialized equipment, thereby improving availability and lowering costs in many regions.

• No thermal energy: Some families prefer avoiding heat-based tools.

• Effective for straightforward restriction: In experienced hands, scissors can deliver a quick, targeted release when anatomy and symptoms align.

Cons and risks of scissor frenectomy

• More bleeding may occur during the procedure: Providers may need additional time for hemostasis, which can increase stress for some infants and parents.

• Sutures, in some cases: Depending on anatomy and the extent of tissue release, stitches can be required.

• Discomfort and reattachment remain possible: pain, swelling, and reattachment can occur, especially if aftercare proves challenging or if the diagnosis does not match the true cause of the feeding difficulty.

Aftercare and support often drive outcomes

A procedure alone rarely solves complex feeding problems. Families often see the best results when a pediatric dentist coordinates with lactation consultants and, when needed, pediatricians or feeding therapists.

Aftercare instructions vary by clinician, but they often focus on keeping the area clean, watching for bleeding, and supporting a comfortable feeding technique. Pain control should follow clinician guidance and child-specific safety recommendations. Prompt follow-up is required if the child shows poor feeding, fever, persistent bleeding, or worsening irritability after release.

Choosing safety, evidence, and comfort

No single method wins for every child, because anatomy, symptoms, and support needs vary widely. Lip tie laser surgery can offer precision and reduced bleeding during the procedure, while scissor techniques offer accessibility and long-standing clinical use. Professional guidance encourages careful diagnosis and appropriate timing, especially as frenulum procedures become more common.

A pediatric dental consultation that centers on function, feeding support, and individualized risk-benefit discussion provides the clearest path to an informed choice. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call our office.

To schedule a consultation, please request an appointment on our website at https://www.hvkidsmiles.com or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at (845) 363-4177 to arrange an appointment at our Middletown office.

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