Strabismus/squint or “crossed eyes” is a condition whereby the eyes do not line up with each other. This occurs when the muscles in the eye do not work together to point your eyes in the same direction. Squint surgery (strabismus surgery) can correct this.
A squint can be caused by the following:
- Imbalance of the eye muscles more common in premature babies and in families with a genetic predisposition
- Long-sightedness or short-sightedness
- Neurological problem affecting the eye muscles which may be more serious and require investigation especially if recent onset
Treatment of Strabismus
Non-surgical treatment for strabismus will depend on the underlying cause and the severity of the eye misalignment which can include:
- Eye exercises
- Spectacles to correct refractive error
- Spectacles with prisms
- Botox injections into the affected eye muscles
Strabismus surgery is designed to tighten(shorten) and loosen(lengthen) the affected eye muscles to realign the eyes. Surgery is done under general anaesthesia in most instances. The eye muscles are accessed through a small opening in the conjunctiva (mucous membrane covering the surface of the eye). The eyeball itself is not entered.
After surgery, it is normal to experience the following:
- Double vision – this can last for a few days
- Pain on eye movement, minor bruising, swelling and bloodshot eyes– this is managed with medication and anti-inflammatory eye drops.
- Dr Vayanos will recommend that you do not swim for at least 2 weeks after the procedure and allow for about a week to recover.
- It takes 4 to 6 weeks for the eyes to heal completely. You will be seen regularly after surgery.
Paediatric and Strabismus Surgeon in Cape Town
Dr Vayanos is a general Ophthalmologist in full-time private practice at the Netcare Christiaan Barnard Private hospital in the centre of Cape Town, South Africa. She has experience in paediatrics, the treatment of squints and strabismus surgery. Her practice is equipped with the latest technology allowing her to give you personalised, quality, and high-standard eye care and surgical precision. If you/your child has a squint, we suggest you book a consultation with Dr Vayanos.
Have any questions on squint surgery? We are here to help. If you do not find your answer below, get in touch with us and we will do our best to provide it.
Strabismus/squint or “crossed eyes” is a condition whereby the eyes do not line up with each other. This occurs when the muscles in the eye do not work together to point your eyes in the same direction. Squint surgery (strabismus surgery) can correct this.
Early intervention is crucial, particularly before the age of 6, as these conditions tend to worsen with age. Strabismus can be corrected at any age, but surgical intervention before 6 years often yields better visual outcomes and greater long-term stability of the results.
The level of pain experienced after strabismus surgery can vary significantly. Typically, for those undergoing the procedure for the first time, the pain is moderate and can generally be managed with over-the-counter analgesics. The duration of discomfort may range from a few hours to several days.
I will recommend that you do not swim for at least 2 weeks after the procedure and allow for about a week to recover. It takes 4 to 6 weeks for the eyes to heal completely from squint surgery.
Complications from strabismus surgery are uncommon but can include over-correction or under-correction of the squint, double vision, or, in rare instances, an infection or inflammatory reaction requiring additional treatment. In exceptional cases, a subsequent surgery may be necessary, such as if a muscle displaces.
Treatment for a squint should ideally start before the age of 6 or 7 for optimal effectiveness. Although earlier intervention tends to be more effective, it is important to note that treatment can still be beneficial at any age.
Strabismus is not typically something that children outgrow, and it can worsen without treatment. If left uncorrected, a squint may also lead to other vision issues, such as amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye.
Minor bruising, swelling and bloodshot eyes are to be expected after squint surgery. These can be managed with medication and anti-inflammatory eye drops.
When washing your face and hair, exercise caution to prevent soap or shampoo from getting into your eyes. It is advisable to take 3–5 days off work to facilitate the recovery process. You may choose to leave your eye uncovered. Ensure to use a clean tissue for wiping your eye, and avoid rubbing your eye with either a tissue or your fingers.