The New York Times investigation examines the increasing popularity of tongue-tie surgeries for infants. Lactation consultants and dentists are aggressively promoting these procedures, even for babies with no genuine signs of tongue-ties, despite the slight risk of complications. The article shares stories of families' experiences and the concerns of medical professionals about the over-diagnosis and potential risks associated with these surgeries.
Tongue Tie Surgery: Inside the Business of Cutting Babies’ Tongues Tess Merrell encountered difficulty breastfeeding her fourth baby and sought help from lactation consultant Melanie Henstrom. Henstrom identified a tongue tie in the baby and recommended a quick procedure to fix it at a dentist's office. However, after the procedure, the baby experienced feeding difficulties and dehydration. This incident sheds light on the growing popularity of tongue-tie surgeries driven by pressure on women to breastfeed. Tongue-tie surgeries, often promoted by lactation consultants and dentists, are increasingly recommended even for babies without genuine tongue-ties. This trend has led to a surge in surgeries, with some families reporting positive outcomes. However, pediatricians across the country are concerned about the over-diagnosis of tongue-ties and the associated risks and complications. The business of tongue-tie surgeries has become a niche industry, with dentists, lactation consultants, and laser manufacturers capitalizing on the demand. Despite the potential risks and lack of oversight, the procedures continue to gain popularity, leaving families grappling with the aftermath of the surgeries. The article highlights the case of Melanie Henstrom, a lactation consultant in Boise, Idaho, who faced several complaints and concerns from health care workers and clients. The lack of regulation in the tongue-tie industry raises questions about the ethical and safety standards of these procedures. The growing popularity of tongue-tie surgeries has raised alarms among medical professionals, with concerns about over-diagnosis and potential risks. The article sheds light on the need for greater scrutiny and regulation in the industry to safeguard the well-being of infants and families.
Tongue Tie Surgery: Inside the Business of Cutting Babies’ Tongues Tess Merrell encountered difficulty breastfeeding her fourth baby and sought help from lactation consultant Melanie Henstrom. Henstrom identified a tongue tie in the baby and recommended a quick procedure to fix it at a dentist's office. However, after the procedure, the baby experienced feeding difficulties and dehydration. This incident sheds light on the growing popularity of tongue-tie surgeries driven by pressure on women to breastfeed. Tongue-tie surgeries, often promoted by lactation consultants and dentists, are increasingly recommended even for babies without genuine tongue-ties. This trend has led to a surge in surgeries, with some families reporting positive outcomes. However, pediatricians across the country are concerned about the over-diagnosis of tongue-ties and the associated risks and complications. The business of tongue-tie surgeries has become a niche industry, with dentists, lactation consultants, and laser manufacturers capitalizing on the demand. Despite the potential risks and lack of oversight, the procedures continue to gain popularity, leaving families grappling with the aftermath of the surgeries. The article highlights the case of Melanie Henstrom, a lactation consultant in Boise, Idaho, who faced several complaints and concerns from health care workers and clients. The lack of regulation in the tongue-tie industry raises questions about the ethical and safety standards of these procedures. The growing popularity of tongue-tie surgeries has raised alarms among medical professionals, with concerns about over-diagnosis and potential risks. The article sheds light on the need for greater scrutiny and regulation in the industry to safeguard the well-being of infants and families.