| Labial frenectomy | |
|---|---|
 A labial frenectomy. The uppermost photo displays amaxillarylabialfrenum that was deemed disruptive toorthodontic treatment by the patient's orthodontist. The middle photo displays the labial fold after the frenum was incised (note the diamond-shaped wound). The third photo displays the wound aftersuturing of the incision which was completed. | |
| ICD-9-CM | 528.5 |
Alabial frenectomy is afrenectomy performed on the lip.
Thelabialfrenulum, also known as lip-tie, often attaches to the center of the upper lip and between the upper two front teeth. This can cause a large gap and gum recession by pulling the gums off the bone. A labial frenectomy removes the labial frenulum. Orthodontic patients often have this procedure done to assist with closing a fronttooth gap. When adenture patient's lips move, the frenulum pulls and loosens the denture, which can be uncomfortable. This surgery is often done to help dentures fit better.[1] A labial frenectomy can result in significant improvement inbreastfeeding outcomes.[2]
