Frenectomy Waterlase Laser

Surgically releasing the frenum is called frenectomy. Conventional treatment involved a procedure where the frenum was cut with a blade or scissors, with or without sutures to reposition its attachment. In our office, we employ a procedure called laser frenectomy in which the Waterlase is used to zap the frenum with laser pulses without even touching it, gently severing it from its attachment.

A baby is sitting on the beach wearing a hat and looking at the ocean.

For Infants Up To 3 Months Old

Quick and Gentle Frenectomy with Waterlase

Our team uses a cotton roll saturated in a sugar solution to stimulate the body’s natural endorphins (painkillers), making anesthesia unnecessary. Healing time is reduced drastically, as the WaterLase does not create tissue trauma or charring, as some older lasers did. The actual procedure takes less than 5 minutes, and full healing occurs in 2 weeks. Post-operative pain is minimal and can generally be managed with acetaminophen (Tylenol).


Dr. Randy has performed this procedure on infants as young as a couple of days old. Dr. Randy performs frenectomies on infants up to 3 months old. Breastfeeding mothers have been able to successfully nurse their infants upon completion of the procedure, and many have reported immediate improvements in their child’s ability to nurse.