Many flat spots improve naturally, especially with simple positioning changes. A 3D assessment helps us understand your baby’s head shape and support you with clear, practical next steps.
It’s not unusual to see flat spots developing in the early months of life. This often develops in the first months because babies spend a lot of time resting on their backs while their head is growing rapidly.
Most mild cases improve as your baby grows, with tummy time and changing head positions when awake. If you’re not seeing progress after 6–8 weeks, or your baby strongly prefers turning one way, a 3D head scan can measure the shape and help guide next steps.
Our specialist paediatric orthotists use a safe, non-contact 3D scan (like a camera taking lots of simultaneous photos) to assess your baby’s head shape.
Many of the babies we assess don’t need any treatment beyond repositioning advice. But when more support is required, we’re here to help.
After performing a 3D head scan, your orthotist will:
It’s important to understand that having a flat spot isn’t a health emergency, and it’s normal for families to have a range of views about what to do next. Our orthotists are here to help you navigate different options and expectations.
Treatment options depend on age and severity. These may include:
Helmets don’t squeeze the head – they create space for growth where needed. Regular reviews ensure comfort and progress.
For many babies, mild flattening improves as they start to turn their head more, enjoy tummy time, and later roll and sit.
It’s worth getting advice if:
Early guidance doesn’t automatically mean helmet therapy – it simply helps you understand options while change is easiest.
On top of Orthokids’ clinical expertise, our orthotists use the most relevant and up-to-date evidence to guide treatment and outcomes. We’ve compiled a useful summary to explain what current research tells us about head shape and treatment.
If your baby has been diagnosed with plagiocephaly or another head shape difference, it’s completely normal to feel unsure about what comes next.
Many families are at the beginning of this process and looking for clear, reliable information. We rely on peer-reviewed research and objective measurements to explain the options in a calm, balanced, and easy-to-understand way.
We’ve been assessing baby head shapes and fitting helmets for more than 25 years. Over that time, we’ve developed a deep understanding of how important clear guidance, realistic expectations, and consistent follow-up are when navigating helmet therapy.
We use the Serkel Helmet to treat babies with head shape differences.
The Serkel Helmet is designed and made in Melbourne. It’s lightweight and breathable, with a removable organic cotton liner that can be washed – something many parents find helpful for everyday care.
The Serkel Helmet is also supported by recently published research, giving families added confidence in its use.
Because the helmet is made locally, wait times are usually shorter. We use this helmet because it aligns well with our clinical approach and the level of care we provide to families.
Families sometimes ask about other helmets they’ve seen online or on social media, including 3D-printed designs made overseas or traditional thermoplastic helmets used in hospitals.
Each option has its own features and considerations. Some may be bulkier, have longer lead times, or be harder to access in Australia. None are “good” or “bad” – they’re simply different ways of approaching the same goal.
It’s important to know that no helmet works on its own. Successful helmet therapy relies on accurate assessment, the right timing, comfort, and regular follow-up as your baby grows.
After more than two decades of clinical experience, we’ve learned that the most important factors in helmet therapy are not the brand name or where a helmet is made, but:
Helmet therapy isn’t right for every baby, and many head shape differences improve with time and positioning alone. Our role is to help families understand whether helmet therapy is appropriate, and if so, guide them through the process with clarity and care.
It’s completely normal to have questions or mixed feelings. Our team is here to provide clear, honest information, explain the options available, and support you in making decisions that feel right for your family.
If you’d like to talk through helmet therapy options or have your baby’s head shape assessed, we’re always happy to help.
With expert care and guidance, we’ll help you feel supported every step of the way.
