Labial Frenectomy
A labial frenectomy frisco is an invasive surgical procedure, primarily performed in the upper jaw, that removes the small tissue, called frenum or frenulum, between the lip and front teeth. A relatively common surgical procedure, labial frenectomies can be performed on both children and adults and involves treating affected areas of the gums and lips.
Reasons for Performing Labial Frenectomies
- To treat congenital defects where the frenum is abnormally shaped or excessively large
- Difficulty speaking or eating
- Reduce pain in the lips and gums
- Improve bite function
- Correct breastfeeding difficulties in infants
- To improve cosmetic aesthetics (appearance)
- To improve the fit of dentures or braces
- Facilitate other orthodontic procedures or oral prosthetic device placement
How is a Labial Frenectomy Procedure Performed?
Labial Frenectomies are typically performed at an out-patient surgery facility, a periodontist or dentist’s office, or hospital by a dental surgeon or general surgeon. The frenectomy procedure will vary based on the technique used to perform the surgery but in general, takes between 30-60 minutes. There are three methods for performing a labial frenectomy:
Traditional Method: While the patient is under local anesthesia, the surgeon removes the abnormal frenulum tissue using a knife or scalpel. Following the removal of the tissue, dissolvable or removable sutures (stitches) are used to close the site.
Modern Method: Also referred to as soft-tissue laser surgery, this method uses a CO2 or YAG laser to remove the abnormal frenulum tissue. Because the laser beam vaporizes the tissue, effectively cutting and coagulating the target site simultaneously, there is no bleeding involved and no sutures needed.
Electrocautery (Thermal Cautery): A form of electro-surgery, electrocautery uses a heated electrode to burn away the excess or abnormal frenulum tissue. Like laser surgery, this technique does not result in bleeding or the need for sutures.
Preparing for the Procedure
- The physician will review the patient’s medical history and possibly conduct blood tests to understand overall health status or underlying conditions that could preclude surgery
- Any medications being taken that could increase bleeding may have to be discontinued leading up to the procedure
- Advise the doctor of any known family history or personal allergies to local anesthetics or lidocaine, any bleeding disorders, or other significant medical conditions
- Provide a list of all prior surgical procedures the patient has undergone
- Discontinue any use of tobacco, nicotine, or alcohol before surgery
- Avoid eating or drinking at least 8 hours before surgery
- Diabetics should ensure their blood sugar stays within the normal range leading up to surgery
Possible Risks and Complications from Frenectomy Surgery
The biggest risk factors to a successful frenectomy surgery relate to the underlying health of the patient. Conditions such as obesity, smoking, advanced age, poorly controlled diabetes, and poor lung, liver, and kidney functions, are just some of the factors that increase the risk of complications during surgery.
While labial frenectomy surgery is straightforward and generally well tolerated, there is the possibility that complications can arise particularly in patients with any of the previously mentioned health conditions. Excessive bleeding, infection at the wound site, allergic reactions or complications from anesthesia, and damage to the soft tissues and nerves may occur from the surgery. Should the patient experience worsening pain, swelling, a fever, or notice signs of infection post-surgery, they should contact their physician.
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