Ankyloglossia (tongue tie) is a condition where the frenulum that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth is so tight that it restricts the movement of the tongue. Full mobility of the tongue is essential to achieving a proper latch and efficiently transferring milk. Tongue ties can vary in appearance from very obvious attachments near the tip of the tongue to less obvious attachments that may be hidden under a membrane. What is most important in diagnosing tongue tie is not the outward appearance of the tongue, but its mobility and function. Dr. Schecter specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of tongue, lip, and buccal ties.

Signs and symptoms of possible ties include: Parent: Painful breastfeeding Damaged nipples ​Infant: Heart-shaped tongue Poor tongue elevation Inability to latch “Clicking” while feeding Reflux Gassiness Poor weight gain Poor milk transfer Never satisfied at the breast If you’re not sure, that’s okay. Dr. Schecter will do a full feeding assessment to see if a tie is really causing the problem.

At Breastfeeding Medicine of New Jersey, we will gently guide you through the frenotomy process. Dr. Schecter treats every baby as one of her own and takes every measure to ensure the comfort of your child throughout the procedure and healing process. ​ Your visit will begin with a thorough history and examination of your child. We always recommend bringing your lactation consultation report to the visit if you have one. Dr. Schecter will explain her findings and treatment recommendations and help you to make an informed decision on how to proceed. ​ If a frenotomy is indicated, it will be offered during your initial visit. Parents are always welcome to remain in the room with their child during procedures, but are not required to do so. Please plan to stay for about an hour if you would like to feed your child afterwards. Your baby will be swaddled, and a topical numbing gel will be applied to the frenulum. Once the superficial tissues are numb, a small amount of local anesthetic is used. This ensures a painless procedure for your child. Parents are offered assistance with breastfeeding and/or bottle feeding after the procedure. Dr. Schecter will teach you how to properly perform the aftercare stretches, which are recommended for 6 weeks following the frenotomy. One week after the procedure, you will be asked to send Dr. Schecter a picture to ensure proper healing.

We don’t use sedation. Instead, Dr. Schecter uses a gentle numbing gel and a small amount of local anesthetic so your baby is comfortable. The procedure is quick, and you can feed your baby right afterward.

We primarily focus on newborns and infants under 12 months for feeding concerns. For older children and adults, please call us to discuss before scheduling.

A Breastfeeding Medicine Consultation is more than standard lactation help. Dr. Schecter is both a physician (MD) and an IBCLC. She provides medical-level care for complex feeding challenges like low milk supply, painful latching, slow weight gain, and more. This can include: ✅ Developing personalized feeding and pumping plans ✅ Evaluating milk supply and transfer ✅ Ordering and interpreting lab work if needed ✅ Prescribing medications or galactagogues (if appropriate) ✅ Guiding induced lactation or relactation for non-gestational parents ✅ Managing infections or nipple/breast conditions It's a comprehensive, whole-parent–whole-baby approach that goes beyond latch technique alone—so you get real answers and a plan that works for your family. To schedule a breastfeeding medicine consultation please call the office.

We’re in-network with Aetna and Meritain (managed by Aetna). For other insurance, you'll pay at the visit, and we’ll provide a claim you can submit for reimbursement. 👉 See Insurance & Fees Page