The advice to lie babies on their backs to prevent cot deaths is one of the most successful public health interventions, but can cause babies to develop a flat head.
A specialist team in Bristol says more research is needed into flat head syndrome, a condition which is thought to affect up to 40% of babies.
It is a unique clinic; the only NHS trust in the country offering helmet therapy for babies with flat heads, known as plagiocephaly or brachycephaly.
The reconstructive science team takes photos of babies' heads which are run through 3D software, to help create bespoke helmets with a 3D printer.
Most cases are mild and self-correct over time, but babies with moderate to severe cases can be referred to experts in Bristol for cosmetic treatment.
