Strabismus Surgery

OVERVIEW

Strabismus surgery is a medically indicated eye muscle procedure that corrects eye misalignment, commonly known as crossed eyes or wandering eyes. The goal is to improve eye alignment so both eyes point in the same direction. This may enhance binocular vision, depth perception, and appearance, and may reduce double vision or abnormal head posture. The procedure is performed by a qualified ophthalmologist with training in eye muscle surgery.

WHO MAY BENEFIT

Strabismus surgery may be recommended for children or adults with persistent eye misalignment caused by muscle imbalance or nerve control problems. It is considered when glasses, prisms, patching, or vision therapy alone are not sufficient to achieve acceptable alignment. A complete eye examination and measurements of eye deviation are required before recommending surgery.

HOW THE PROCEDURE WORKS

Strabismus surgery adjusts the position or strength of selected eye muscles. Depending on the case, the surgeon may:

1. Weaken an overacting muscle by moving it backward on the eye surface.

2. Strengthen a weak muscle by shortening or repositioning it.

3. Operate on one or both eyes during the same session.

The eyeball is not removed during surgery. The procedure is typically done under local or general anesthesia, depending on patient age, cooperation, and medical status. Most cases are performed as day surgery.

EXPECTED BENEFITS

The intended benefits of strabismus surgery include:

1. Improved eye alignment.

2. Better coordination of both eyes.

3. Possible improvement in double vision.

4. Improved facial symmetry and social confidence.

5. Support for binocular vision development in selected patients.

Outcomes vary based on age, diagnosis, severity, and underlying neurologic or muscular conditions. Some patients may still need glasses or additional therapy after surgery.

LIMITATIONS

Strabismus surgery adjusts muscle position but does not directly treat all causes of poor vision. It does not automatically eliminate the need for eyeglasses, prisms, or amblyopia treatment. Perfect alignment cannot be guaranteed in every case. More than one surgery may be required in certain patients.

POSSIBLE RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS

All surgical procedures carry risk. Potential risks include:

1. Under-correction or over-correction of eye alignment.

2. Need for repeat surgery.

3. Temporary or persistent double vision.

4. Infection, bleeding, or scarring.

5. Redness and discomfort during healing.

6. Rare complications affecting vision.

Risk levels depend on individual health factors and surgical complexity.

RECOVERY AND AFTERCARE

Most patients go home the same day. Mild pain, redness, and swelling are common for one to two weeks. Eye drops or ointment are usually prescribed. Normal light activities may resume within a few days, while swimming and contact sports are temporarily restricted. Follow-up visits are required to monitor healing and alignment.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Treatment recommendations are based on clinical findings, diagnostic measurements, and accepted ophthalmic practice guidelines. Individual results and recovery times vary. A personalized evaluation is required to determine suitability for strabismus surgery.