Intelligence is usually normal, but mild to moderate mental delays may occur. Craniosynostosis surgery is commonly offered to correct the cosmetic deformity of the skull and face. The timing and type of surgery is very much dependent on the type of synostosis and the preference of the surgeon. Most often, surgery for craniosynostosis is performed during the first several months of life. Helmets or headband therapy may also be used as an adjunct to surgery for selected cases.
Some neurosurgeons use headbands for occipital plagiocephaly.
In this type of therapy, the child wears a customized, external helmet or headband for a prescribed period to direct proper skull growth.