24 March, 2026
What Are Sutures in the Skull?
Skull sutures are soft, flexible joints between the bones of a baby’s skull that allow the head to grow as the brain grows. Sutures stay open in infancy so the skull can expand safely with rapid brain development.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, these sutures are a normal and essential part of healthy skull growth. This does not automatically mean something is wrong if you can feel a line on your baby’s head, as open sutures are expected during early development.
Why babies are not born with one solid skull
A newborn’s skull is made of several separate bones connected by sutures. These flexible joints allow the head to change shape during birth and then expand quickly during infancy.
If the skull were one hard piece at birth, it would not be able to adapt to brain growth safely.
The main sutures in the skull
The main sutures are the sagittal suture on the top of the head, the coronal sutures near the front, the metopic suture in the forehead, and the lambdoid sutures at the back.
Doctors use these names to describe different head shapes and growth patterns.
How sutures support brain growth
A baby’s brain grows rapidly in the first year of life. Sutures allow the skull bones to slowly move apart as the brain expands. This keeps the skull large enough for the growing brain while maintaining protection.
When sutures normally close
Sutures do not close at birth. Most remain open through infancy and gradually fuse during childhood or adolescence.
For example, the metopic suture often closes earlier in early childhood, while other sutures remain flexible longer. This slow closure is normal.
What happens if a suture closes too early
If a suture closes too early, it is called craniosynostosis. When this happens, skull growth becomes restricted in that area and the head shape may change in a specific pattern.
Craniosynostosis is rare compared to normal open sutures, but doctors evaluate it when head shape or growth appears unusual.
Can you feel sutures on a baby’s head?
Parents may gently feel soft ridges or lines on a newborn’s head. In most babies, this is completely normal and becomes less noticeable as the skull grows. Feeling a suture does not automatically mean it has fused early.
If a ridge feels very firm or the head shape looks unusual and does not change over time, a doctor can examine whether the sutures are developing normally.
How doctors check skull sutures
Parents may gently feel soft ridges or lines on a newborn’s head. In most babies, this is completely normal and becomes less noticeable as the skull grows. Feeling a suture does not automatically mean it has fused early.
If a ridge feels very firm or the head shape looks unusual and does not change over time, a doctor can examine whether the sutures are developing normally.
Why open sutures are a healthy sign
Open sutures mean the skull can grow safely with the brain. They are not a weakness or danger. Flexible sutures are necessary for normal brain and skull development.
If you would like to monitor head growth patterns over time, consistent measurements can support calm and informed discussions with your healthcare provider.
Common questions parents ask
Are skull sutures normal?
Yes, they are a normal and essential part of skull development.
Do sutures close at birth?
No, most stay open for years and close gradually.
Does feeling a ridge mean something is wrong?
Not usually, mild ridges are common in newborns.
What is craniosynostosis?
It is when a skull suture closes too early.
Are open sutures dangerous?
No, they are necessary for brain growth.
Writen by Elly van der Grift
Elly van der Grift is the co-founder of Skully Care and a pediatric physiotherapist with over 30 years of experience. Her mission is to provide top care for babies with skull deformities. With her infectious enthusiasm, she shares simple, effective tips that can make a big difference for your baby. Working with Elly, you'll feel confident and supported in your baby’s journey to better health.