Strabismus Surgery

Strabismus surgery is a specialized surgical procedure used to correct the misalignment of the eye muscles, aiming to restore proper eye alignment and improve binocular vision or cosmetic appearance. It is a common procedure in ophthalmology and can be performed on both children and adults, whether for medical necessity or aesthetic reasons.

Strabismus is a condition where the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at an object. One eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward. This occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles that control eye movement. In severe cases or when non-surgical treatments fail, surgical intervention is recommended to adjust the tension or positioning of one or more eye muscles.

The surgery aims to:

• Improve eye alignment.

• Reduce or eliminate double vision.

• Enhance visual function and appearance.

Common Causes of Strabismus

Several factors can contribute to the development of strabismus, including:

1. Congenital (inherited) – Present from birth due to developmental issues.

2. Neurological causes – Damage or dysfunction in the nerves controlling eye movement.

3. Refractive errors – Especially uncorrected farsightedness (hyperopia).

4. Head trauma or eye injury – Disrupting muscle balance or nerve function.

5. Medical conditions – Such as diabetes, stroke, or thyroid eye disease.

6. Adult-onset strabismus – Can result from muscle fatigue, nerve palsy, or systemic conditions.

Signs and Symptoms of Strabismus

Symptoms vary depending on age and severity, and may include:

• Noticeable eye deviation (one eye turning in/out/up/down).

• Double vision (diplopia).

• Eye strain or fatigue.

• Headaches.

• Closing or squinting one eye, especially in bright light.

• Reduced depth perception or difficulty with coordination.

• Difficulty focusing, particularly in children.

• Psychological impact, such as low self-esteem.

Treatment Options for Strabismus

Treatment depends on the type, severity, and cause of the strabismus and may involve:

▪ Non-Surgical Treatments:

• Prescription glasses – To correct refractive errors.

• Prism lenses – To align images for better binocular vision.

• Eye exercises – Also called vision therapy, to improve muscle coordination.

• Botulinum toxin (Botox) – Sometimes injected to weaken overactive muscles temporarily.

▪ Surgical Treatment (Definitive Solution):

Surgery is considered when non-surgical methods are ineffective, or the deviation is cosmetically or functionally significant. The procedure involves repositioning one or more extraocular muscles to correct the alignment. 

Procedure Steps of Strabismus Surgery

The surgery is generally performed under general anesthesia (especially for children) or local anesthesia (for cooperative adults). It typically includes:

1. Comprehensive preoperative assessment – Includes eye movement tests and refraction.

2. Anesthesia administration.

3. Small incision in the conjunctiva (the white part of the eye).

4. Repositioning or shortening of one or more eye muscles to achieve proper alignment.

5. Precise suturing of muscles to maintain stability.

6. Closure of the incision and application of a temporary eye dressing.

The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of muscles involved. 

Recovery and Aftercare

• Most patients are discharged on the same day.

• Temporary redness, mild discomfort, or a foreign body sensation may occur.

• Anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops are prescribed.

• Avoid rubbing the eyes, swimming, or strenuous activity for 1–2 weeks.

• Improvement in alignment is typically visible within a few days to two weeks.

Is the Surgery Successful?

Strabismus surgery has a high success rate when performed by experienced ophthalmic surgeons. In many cases, patients achieve excellent alignment, improved vision, and enhanced cosmetic outcomes. Occasionally, further treatment (including a second surgery or vision therapy) may be needed in complex cases.

 

Booking and Consultation

If you or your child suffer from eye misalignment or its symptoms, it is important to consult with an eye specialist. A thorough evaluation can determine the best course of treatment, whether non-surgical or surgical.

Schedule your consultation now through Macrocare | Your journey to better vision starts here.