804.585.3420 Menu

The Causes of Positional Plagiocephaly

Positional molding can occur as a result of your child sleeping on the back of his/her head, the baby’s prolonged position in the womb or from torticollis. The latter has been much more common as sleeping on the back, and not the belly, is the recommended position by the American Academy of Pediatrics

The change in head shape occurs because there is constant pressure to one side of the head causing it to be flat. Children who are premature or the result of multiple birth pregnancy may have a higher incidence of plagiocephaly.

Pediatric Plastic Surgery - Dr. Aboutanos

Pediatric Plastic Surgery - Dr. Aboutanos

Treatment of Positional Plagiocephaly

Positional molding, if detected early enough, may improve on its own within the first six months of life with positional changes alone. If your child has torticollis, neck-stretching exercises will be provided in addition to the positional changes. 

It has been our experience that if the deformity is moderate or severe after six months of age, then helmet therapy might be indicated. Helmet therapy does not usually work after the child is 14-18 months of age. If helmet therapy is delayed after this age, extensive cranial surgery is the only way to fix an abnormal head shape.

If helmet therapy is prescribed, your child would need to wear the helmet 23 hours/day, everyday. It may be removed for short periods for airing or bathing. The average treatment time is three-four months. Most children are able to tolerate helmet therapy within the first days of use. To learn more about positional plagiocephaly treatment in Richmond, VA, please call to meet with one of our craniofacial surgeons.

Schedule a Consultation

If you would like more information regarding a specific procedure, or wish to have a member of our staff contact you, please fill out this contact form and let us know how we can best serve you!

Contact Us

© Richmond Plastic Surgeons. All Rights Reserved. Web Design & Internet Marketing by Studio III

Privacy Policy

Patient Portal
Contact Us

Contact Us

Cosmetic Patients: 804.585.3419