What Is Strabismus?
Strabismus is a condition where the eyes do not align properly. One eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward while the other eye remains focused. This misalignment can occur occasionally or be constant and may lead to vision problems such as double vision or lazy eye (amblyopia). Strabismus can develop due to muscle imbalance, nerve issues, or genetic factors.
Causes of Strabismus
Strabismus can occur due to various factors, including:
- Muscle Imbalance: The six muscles controlling eye movement may not work together effectively.
- Nerve Disorders: Conditions like cerebral palsy or stroke can affect nerve control of the eye muscles.
- Refractive Errors: Uncorrected farsightedness (hyperopia) may lead to strabismus as the eye strains to focus.
- Genetics: A family history of strabismus increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
- Eye Injuries or Diseases: Trauma or conditions affecting the eye muscles can contribute to strabismus.
Read about What is Paediatric Ophthalmology Squint (Strabismus)?
Strabismus Eye Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatment
In mild to moderate cases, non-surgical approaches may be effective:
- Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses: Corrective lenses help in cases where strabismus is caused by refractive errors.
- Eye Exercises: Orthoptic therapy may improve coordination between the eyes.
- Prism Lenses: Special lenses help reduce double vision by adjusting light entering the eye.
- Botox Injections: Temporarily weaken overactive eye muscles to improve alignment.
- Patching Therapy: Covering the stronger eye to encourage the weaker eye to function better.
Explore How To Deal With Squints (Strabismus) In Adults.
Strabismus Surgery
For cases where non-surgical treatments do not yield satisfactory results, strabismus surgery is a viable option. This procedure involves adjusting the eye muscles to achieve better alignment.
Strabismus Surgery Procedure
The surgical process follows these steps:
- Preoperative Assessment: An ophthalmologist evaluates the patient’s eye condition and determines the necessary muscle adjustments.
- Anesthesia Administration: Typically performed under general anesthesia, especially in children.
- Muscle Adjustment: The surgeon shortens, lengthens, or repositions the eye muscles to improve alignment.
- Postoperative Care: Recovery includes eye drops, follow-up visits, and possibly eye exercises.
Side Effects of Strabismus Surgery
While strabismus surgery is generally safe, some potential side effects may include temporary redness, mild discomfort, light sensitivity, double vision, and, in rare cases, overcorrection or undercorrection of eye alignment. Infection and scarring are uncommon but possible risks. Regular follow-ups with an ophthalmologist can help monitor and address any post-surgical concerns.
Strabismus Surgery Before and After: What to Expect
Before Surgery
Patients undergo a comprehensive eye examination, including measurements of eye deviation and muscle strength assessment. The ophthalmologist explains the expected outcomes and recovery process.
After Surgery
- Temporary redness and mild discomfort are common.
- Vision may appear slightly blurry initially but stabilizes over time.
- Follow-up visits help monitor healing and determine if further adjustments are needed.
Squint Surgery Age Limit and Success Rates
Squint Surgery Age Limit
Strabismus surgery can be performed at any age. However, early intervention, especially in children, is recommended to prevent vision complications such as amblyopia.
Squint Eye Surgery Success Rate
The success rate of strabismus surgery varies depending on the severity of misalignment and individual response to treatment. Many patients achieve improved eye alignment and better binocular vision.
Squint Surgery Success Rate and Squint Operation Success Rate
Multiple factors influence the outcomes, including:
- Degree of misalignment
- Adherence to postoperative care
- Need for additional procedures in complex cases
Recovery Time and Aftercare
Recovery varies, but most patients resume normal activities within a week. Complete healing may take several weeks. Recommendations include:
- Using prescribed eye drops to prevent infection
- Avoiding strenuous activities for a few weeks
- Attending follow-up visits to ensure proper healing
Why Centre for Sight?
While the procedure isn’t very risky, the skills and expertise of the medical practitioner can significantly impact the results. If you are looking for ophthalmologists to consult for this condition or any other eye-ailments, you can visit your nearest Centre for Sight centre and book an appointment with one of our experts. We have world-class amenities and are among the premium institutions across the country.
Conclusion
Strabismus eye treatment options range from non-surgical methods to corrective surgery, depending on the severity of misalignment. Early intervention and proper postoperative care can enhance treatment effectiveness. Consulting an ophthalmologist ensures the best approach tailored to the individual’s condition.
Start addressing your eye alignment concerns today with expert guidance. Explore Strabismus Treatment Options!
FAQs
Strabismus surgery can be performed at any age, but early treatment, especially before age 7, is recommended to improve visual outcomes.
The procedure itself is painless due to anesthesia. Mild discomfort and redness may occur postoperatively, which typically resolves within a few days.
Initial healing takes about a week, but full recovery may take a few weeks, depending on the individual case.
In some cases, additional surgery may be needed, especially if the condition is severe or progressive.
Strabismus surgery primarily corrects eye alignment. In cases of amblyopia, additional vision therapy may be needed for improvement.
