Tongue, lip and cheek-tie releases are often recommended to help with breastfeeding or to prevent health problems. Few studies have shown benefits.It’s an increasingly common scenario faced by new mothers across the country: A lactation consultant examines their newborn and suggests that cutting a “tongue-tie” may ease their difficulty breastfeeding.The quick procedure, known as a tongue-tie release, involves a dentist or doctor snipping a tight band of tissue connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. In recent years, lactation consultants and dentists have aggressively promoted the procedures, even for babies with no signs of real tongue-ties and despite a modest risk of complications, a New York Times investigation recently found.Many parents, anxious and exhausted, agonize over whether to go through with the procedure, which is often done with a dental laser. Dentists, lactation consultants and pediatricians often disagree about whether it will help.The Times spent months investigating the evidence behind tongue-tie releases and talking to dozens of experts. Here’s what parents who are considering the procedure should know.Breastfeeding a newborn can be hard, even when it’s going well.The early days of nursing can be rough. One recent survey of more than 1,400 women found that nearly 40 percent struggled with at least one complication, such as latching pain, cracked nipples or sore breasts.We are having trouble retrieving the article content.Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and log into your Times account, or subscribe for all of The Times.Thank you for your patience while we verify access.Already a subscriber?