AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?
After your appointment, keep your baby close, calm and fed. They may be feeling a little unsettled and requiring more comfort than usual. Keep your aftercare information nearby and monitor for signs of bleeding. Hand in your GP letter to the Surgery as soon as possible. If your baby is old enough to take analgesia/pain relief, then you may wish to offer this if you feel that they are in pain.
WHAT IF MY BABY BLEEDS AFTER THE APPOINTMENT?
You will not leave the clinic until your baby is settled and there are no signs of bleeding. It is not unusual for your baby to have a small amount of bleeding from the wound for a few days post procedure. You will be given information on how to manage a bleed at home and when to seek medical attention. You can find this information here. If your baby is showing any signs of illness, such as a temperature, rash or reduced feeding and nappy output then seek medical attention as usual.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
You will be offered a telephone call within 48 hours for a follow up and you can access the service for 6 weeks post procedure should you need to. For ongoing feeding support, you will need to book an appointment at an additional cost. After 6 weeks, you will be discharged from the service.
HOW WILL THE WOUND HEAL?
The wound may not be noticeable or may look like a "hole" or "diamond" shape underneath the tongue. The wound will start to look white/yellow in colour after the first few days and this is the normal healing process. Ensure all feeding equipment is sterile and continue with tongue exercises. You do not need to massage the wound.