At what age can a child have surgery?

There is no fixed minimum age. Some procedures, such as neonatal surgery, are performed in the first hours or days of life. The decision depends on the specific condition, the child's overall health, and the urgency of the case. During the consultation, we evaluate each situation individually.

How do I know if my child needs surgery?

Most pediatric surgical conditions present visible signs such as lumps (hernias), difficulty feeding (tongue-tie), or symptoms like persistent abdominal pain. If you notice something unusual, the best step is to schedule an evaluation. Not all consultations lead to surgery — many conditions can be managed with follow-up care.

What type of anesthesia is used for children?

Most pediatric surgeries use general anesthesia, administered by a specialized pediatric anesthesiologist. Current protocols are very safe and specifically designed for children. Before surgery, the anesthesia team evaluates the child and explains the entire process to the parents.

How long is the recovery after surgery?

It depends on the type of procedure. Outpatient surgeries like inguinal hernia or tongue-tie allow the child to go home the same day, with full recovery in 1 to 2 weeks. More complex procedures may require hospitalization and a longer recovery period. In each case, I provide detailed postoperative care instructions.

Can I be with my child before and after surgery?

Yes. Parents can accompany their child during preoperative preparation and are present during recovery. We understand that parental presence is essential for the child's comfort. We keep you informed at all times during the procedure.

What should I do if my child has a surgical emergency?

If your child has symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, or a lump that cannot be reduced, go to the nearest pediatric emergency room. You can also contact me via WhatsApp for immediate guidance. In emergencies like appendicitis or testicular torsion, time is critical.

Tongue-tie: how it affects your baby's breastfeeding

Ankyloglossia or tongue-tie is a condition present from birth in which the band of tissue under the tongue is shorter or thicker than normal, limiting its mobility.

How does it affect breastfeeding?

The baby needs to move the tongue freely to achieve a good latch at the breast. When the frenulum is short, you may notice:

Difficulty latching onto the breast
Prolonged feedings without adequate weight gain
Nipple pain for the mother due to poor latch
Clicking sounds during breastfeeding
Reflux or excessive gas from swallowing air

When to consult?

If breastfeeding is painful, the baby is not gaining weight adequately, or you notice that your baby's tongue cannot protrude beyond the lower lip, it's important to seek evaluation with a pediatric surgeon.

Treatment

Frenotomy is a quick procedure (a few minutes) that releases the frenulum. In young babies, it can be performed in the office with minimal discomfort. Results are immediate: many mothers notice improvement in breastfeeding from the very first feeding after the procedure.

Not just breastfeeding

In older children, untreated tongue-tie can cause speech difficulties, dental hygiene problems, and difficulty playing wind instruments. Early evaluation allows determining the best time to intervene.

Breastfeeding is fundamental for your baby's development. If you suspect a tongue-tie is interfering, consult a specialist.