The most common craniofacial problem today is called plagiocephaly, literally meaning oblique head. Deformational plagiocephaly, also known as positional plagiocephaly, refers to a misshapen (asymmetrical) head shape.

This skull deformity results from repeated external pressure to an infant's skull due to the head being in one position for extended periods (eg in a cot or car seat). In these positional deformities, the occiput (back part of the head) is most often flattened. When viewed from above the head will take on a parallelogram shape and the forehead on the affected side is typically prominent. The ear on the affected side may be pushed forward compared with the other side. There may also be facial asymmetry, with the affected side having a fuller cheek.