Characteristic facial features from fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD)
Children who were exposed to alcohol during fetal development often develop distinctive facial features that may include:
- A small head and flat face.
- Narrow eye openings (slits).
- A short, upturned nose.
- A flattened groove between the nose and the upper lip (philtrum).
- A thin upper lip.
Unless the effects of alcohol exposure are severe, these traits often aren't noticed until the child is about 2 or 3 years of age. Gradually, many of these features become less noticeable starting in the teen years. However, a larger-than-average nose may become noticeable by adulthood.
| Author: | Debby Golonka, MPH | Last Updated: April 2, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Ernest L. Abel, PhD - Reproductive Toxicology | |
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