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Uneven or flat head shape in babies

An uneven or flat head in a baby often develops because the same soft part of the skull is under pressure for a long time. This is called positional plagiocephaly or brachycephaly. The shape usually improves with growth, varied positioning and treatment of a stiff neck, but premature closure of a skull suture must be ruled out.

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An uneven or flat head in a baby often develops because the same soft part of the skull is under pressure for a long time. This is called positional plagiocephaly or brachycephaly. The shape usually improves with growth, varied positioning and treatment of a stiff neck, but premature closure of a skull suture must be ruled out.

  • A flat area on one side or in the middle of the back of the head.
  • Seen from above, the forehead, ears or cheeks look slightly uneven.
  • Place your baby on their back for every sleep, on a flat, firm mattress without positioning pillows.
  • Offer several short periods of supervised tummy time when your baby is awake and alert.
  • Make an appointment if you are worried about the shape or growth of your baby's head.
  • For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.

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