Don’t Rush to Cut: Why Seeking Support for Breastfeeding Challenges Before a Tongue Tie Release Is Essential

In the early days of parenting, feeding your baby can feel like the most natural thing in the world—or the most frustrating. If breastfeeding feels painful, inefficient, or stressful, you might start to wonder: Could it be a tongue tie?

It’s a question that many parents ask—and sometimes, the answer is yes. But before jumping straight to a tongue tie release (also called a frenectomy), there’s a critical step that often gets overlooked: building the right support system first.

Here’s why taking time before scheduling a procedure could make all the difference for you and your baby.

1. Breastfeeding Is a Whole-Body Experience

Breastfeeding is more than just a latch. It’s a full-body coordination of muscles, reflexes, posture, and nervous system regulation. When a baby is struggling at the breast, it may be due to a tongue restriction—but it could also be caused by tension throughout the body, birth trauma, or feeding positions that aren’t working well for your baby’s individual needs.

Working with a skilled provider like a lactation consultant (IBCLC), occupational therapist, or bodyworker trained in infant feeding can help identify what’s really going on—and support better function without jumping straight to a surgical solution.

2. Function First: What Can Your Baby Do?

Tongue ties are often diagnosed by appearance alone, but structure doesn’t always equal function. In fact, some babies with visible ties breastfeed beautifully, while others with almost no visible restriction struggle greatly.

That’s why it’s essential to evaluate how the tongue and mouth are functioning. A provider trained in oral motor function and infant feeding can assess whether your baby’s tongue is truly causing a functional problem—or whether other adjustments could improve feeding.

3. Releasing a Tie Without Preparation May Lead to More Challenges

A tongue tie release without the right pre- and post-care can sometimes lead to more feeding frustration. Without addressing the underlying muscle coordination and body tension, your baby may not know how to use their “new” tongue efficiently after release. This can cause setbacks in feeding, more stress, and even the need for a second procedure.

Preparation matters. Supporting your baby with therapeutic bodywork, oral motor exercises, and breastfeeding support before the procedure sets the stage for lasting success.

4. Empowerment Through Education

When you seek out knowledgeable support first, you’re giving yourself the power to make an informed decision—not one driven by fear or urgency. Understanding why your baby is struggling to feed and what the options are helps you feel more confident and less overwhelmed.

Sometimes, the right support may resolve the issue entirely without the need for release. Other times, it may confirm that a release is needed—but now, you’re prepared, supported, and set up for better results.

5. You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

If you’re feeling unsure about your baby’s feeding challenges, you’re not failing. You’re navigating. And the best journeys begin with guidance.

A collaborative care team might include:

An IBCLC to help with latch, position, and milk supply
An occupational therapist specializing in infant feeding and oral function
A craniosacral or craniosacral fascial therapist to release tension
A release provider (ENT or pediatric dentist) who works in partnership with these professionals

Together, this team can give your baby the very best chance to feed, grow, and thrive—whether or not a release is ultimately part of the plan.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Rush to Cut

Every baby is unique. Every breastfeeding journey is different. If a tongue tie is suspected, pause, breathe, and reach out to a supportive provider who can help you see the full picture.

Trust your instincts—but trust your village, too.

You and your baby deserve thoughtful, gentle, whole-body care—not quick fixes. Start with support. Healing begins there.