Specialized Cranial Remolding Orthoses

Cranial Center provides STARband™ cranial remolding orthoses to address deformational plagiocephaly and post-operative cranial remolding orthoses for craniosynostosis.

Our experienced team uses advanced scanning technology and custom-designed cranial orthoses to help guide healthy skull development during infancy.

Why Timing Matters

In the first few months of life, an infant’s skull is incredibly malleable, with soft, flexible bones and open fibrous joints called sutures.

During this phase of intense growth, the skull can quickly take on an asymmetrical or misshapen appearance if sustained pressure or positioning is applied to one area.

However, this same malleability allows custom-molded cranial remolding helmets to gently redirect skull growth into a symmetrical and rounded shape.

How STARband™ Helmet Therapy Works

The orthosis does not squeeze or forcibly reshape the skull itself. Instead, it applies mild pressure to restrict growth in certain areas while leaving room for flattened portions to expand proportionally.

Starting helmet therapy between 3–8 months provides the greatest opportunity to guide cranial growth before the skull begins to harden and fuse together.

By approximately 12 months of age, the skull bones become significantly more rigid, making cranial remolding much more difficult and, in some cases, impossible.

When to Seek Evaluation

Parents are encouraged to monitor their baby’s head shape closely during infancy.

Any abnormal or persistent flattening, bulging, asymmetry, or uneven growth after the first few months should be evaluated by a pediatrician or craniofacial specialist.

The earlier treatment begins during the prime 3–8 month developmental window, the shorter and more effective the overall treatment process typically becomes.

Treatment Results & Outcomes

With consistent helmet wear as directed during this critical phase of growth, many cases of deformational plagiocephaly can be significantly improved within approximately 3–6 months.

The goal of treatment is to help support a more symmetrical and proportional head shape while allowing for healthy continued skull and brain development.

While helmet therapy requires adjustment for both infants and parents, early intervention provides the best opportunity for natural, healthy cranial growth.