Should Adults Have Tongue-Tie Surgery?

Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue’s range of motion. While it’s a common condition in infants, affecting as many as 4-11% of newborn babies, it’s often overlooked in adults. The decision to have tongue-tie surgery as an adult is a complex and deeply personal one, and there are several factors to consider before undergoing the procedure.

Meet Dr. Gregory Levitin, a board-certified otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeon at NYC Tongue Tie. With a remarkable track record of over 2,500 successful tongue-tie surgeries, including Tongue-Tie Adult Surgeries, he is a trusted expert in the field.

Complications with Tongue Tie in Adults

First and foremost, it’s important to understand the potential impact of tongue tie on adults. While the symptoms and severity of tongue tie vary from person to person, some adults with untreated tongue tie may experience:

• Speech difficulties
• Problems with swallowing
• Complications with good oral hygiene
• Snoring
• Sleep apnea
• Problems when kissing
• TMJ dysfunction
• Difficulty playing wind instruments

These challenges can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and overall well-being and even lead to low self-esteem or even depression.

Tongue-Tie Release Surgery Considerations

Adults considering tongue-tie surgery should weigh the potential benefits against the risks and potential complications. The procedure, known as frenotomy or frenuloplasty, involves cutting or modifying the lingual frenulum to allow for greater tongue mobility.

Dr. Levitin has developed an innovative, quick and pain-free release procedure that can be performed in his office without a hospital visit or heavy anesthesia. The procedure, which takes about 10 minutes, does not require sutures, lasers or downtime.

After a small amount of anesthesia is administered, the procedure is completed and patients can return home shortly after and resume eating and drinking immediately. Typically, there is no need for a follow-up visit.

While the initial consultation may be covered by insurance, the procedure itself is self-pay. However, the all-inclusive fee covers everything, avoiding additional costs from a hospital, surgery center, anesthesiologist, or prescription medications.

Adult Tongue-Tie Treatment in New York City

Dr. Levitin is a highly qualified otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeon with experience diagnosing and treating tongue tie in adults. He conducts a thorough evaluation of every patient to determine if tongue tie surgery is the appropriate course of action. Not all cases of tongue tie require surgical intervention, and alternative therapies such as speech therapy or myofunctional therapy may be recommended in some instances.

While tongue ties in adults may not receive as much attention as they do in infants, they can significantly impact various aspects of daily life. For some adults, tongue tie surgery may offer relief from longstanding challenges with speech, swallowing or other related issues.

Contact Dr. Levitin at NYC Tongue Tie to gain a thorough understanding of the potential benefits and risks and the essential steps in making an informed decision about pursuing tongue-tie surgery as an adult.