Rabee’a Yang, who has one son and one daughter with Dear Jane lead singer Tim Wong, celebrated her youngest son’s first birthday this June! The family of four took a family portrait, and a birthday party was held for their son. It was observed that the youngest son constantly wore a corrective helmet when out for photos and play. It is understood that this is to treat "flat head syndrome," and Rabee’a revealed that her son will soon be able to remove the helmet.
To mark their son Tristan's first birthday, the family of four took a family photo for posterity, and also held a small birthday party. Tristan was seen wearing a helmet both in photos and when out and about. Rabee'a frequently shares photos of her family life on social media. In fact, as early as March, Tristan was already wearing a helmet in photos she uploaded of her son. Recently, a netizen asked, "I'm curious, how long is he expected to wear that helmet?" Rabee'a replied, "He's almost ready to graduate," indicating that her son will soon no longer need to wear it.
Actually, the helmet Tristan wears is a "corrective helmet" used to treat "flat head syndrome". He started wearing it when he was about 8 months old, and has been wearing it at home and when out with his parents for about 4 months now.
Flat head syndrome
Regarding this, TOPick consulted Dr. Wu Chun-bun, a paediatrician at Hui'er Paediatric Medical Centre, about "flat head syndrome". Dr. Wu Chun-bun also previously participated inYouTubeSharing information, he explained that "flat head syndrome" literally means that the shape of the skull deviates from its original intended shape. The types of flat head syndrome are generally plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, asymmetrical brachycephaly, and scaphocephaly (an elongated head shape). There are multiple causes for this, such as insufficient space and position for the foetus in the mother's womb, particularly common in twins and triplets. Additionally, some babies may require instruments such as suction cups to assist with birth, which can potentially elongate the head; some babies also tend to sleep on their side.
Dr. Hu Zhenbin pointed out that in terms of diagnosis, it is usually the parents who notice that the baby's head shape is abnormal and begins to deviate from its original shape. They become concerned and bring their child for examination. In severe cases, it may affect the facial appearance and the symmetry of the ears. In even more severe cases, an MRI may reveal that the brain is already under pressure.
▲ Paediatric specialist Dr. Wu Chun-bun explains "flat-head syndrome". (YouTube video screenshot)
Regarding treatment, mild cases where the baby's skull shape is abnormal can be improved through sleeping positions, such as using special pillows to prevent the baby from sleeping on its side. For more severe cases, a "corrective helmet" is required. Experts will take photos from multiple angles for assessment and then create a bespoke corrective helmet using lightweight materials based on the baby's condition. Since 70-80% of a baby's skull growth occurs in the first year, skull growth slows down after 12-18 months, and by 18 months to 2 years, the skull shape is almost set. Therefore, the ideal time to wear a "corrective helmet" is between 4 to 6 months, and typically, wearing it for 3 to 6 months is sufficient.
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