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Plagiocephaly

Plagiocephaly - Frequently Asked Questions


Q: Which doctor should I consult if my baby has a flat head?

A: A general practitioner or family physician can be consulted initially. If the doctor suspects craniosynostosis or any other medical condition then a pediatric neurosurgeon or a craniofacial plastic surgeon should be consulted as per his advice.

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Q: How does the DOC band work?

A: The DOC Band helps reshape baby’s head by applying mild pressure to the areas of prominence such as a high forehead, bumps above the ears, bulging on one side of the head and encourages growth in the flattened areas of your child’s head.

Q: What is cranial helmet?

A: It is a protective head covering or cranial remolding device to remold the head into a symmetrical shape as the baby grows. It allows the flattened areas of the head to round out and prevents the bulging areas from progressing. Helmets are most effective in infants from 4 to 8 months old

Q: What is cost of cranial helmet?

A: Approximate Price is Rs 15,800/ Piece or $2300-$4000.

Q: Does flattened head child's brain growth?

A: No. Having a flattened head does not affect a child's brain growth or cause developmental delays or brain damage.

Q: What is metopic synostosis?

A: A baby’s skull is made up of several small bones separated by growth plates called sutures. One suture runs from the top of the skull, down the middle of the forehead and toward the nose. This suture is called the metopic (forehead) suture and it is the first suture in an infant’s head to close as it grows. When this suture fuses prematurely it is known as metopic synostosis and it can impact the baby’s appearance and brain development. Babies have a noticeable ridge running down their forehead, causing the forehead to form in a triangular shape.

Q: Is plagiocephaly common?

A: Yes.

Q: At what age does plagiocephaly develop?

A: Most parents notice the flattening of plagiocephaly when their babies are 6 to 8 weeks old.

Q: When does the flattening process stop?

A: The flattening usually stops when babies gain head control, typically at around 3 months.

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