Scoping Review of Breastfeeding Outcomes and Practices for Infants With an Upper Lip Tie

This scoping review of the literature sought to explore and summarize the existing research on breastfeeding and upper lip ties. Seventeen articles met peer-reviewed eligibility criteria and were included in the review. Findings were categorized into four themes: Subjective Upper Lip Tie Diagnostic Criteria Do Not Always Relate to Breastfeeding Outcomes, Lack of Literature on Upper Lip Tie Alone in Relation to Breastfeeding, Upper Lip Tie Not Correlated to Breastfeeding Rates, and Subjective Breastfeeding Improvement Post-Frenotomy Possible. The findings revealed inconsistencies among provider upper lip tie diagnosis. Most research included infants having both lip and tongue ties. Furthermore, studies lacked an assessment of objective breastfeeding outcomes and long-term breastfeeding success. Additional research is needed to determine the best breastfeeding practices for infants with lip ties.