Strabismus Treatment: Assessment, Options and Risks

Strabismus, often called a squint, means the eyes do not consistently point in the same direction. It may be present from childhood or develop later, and the cause and effect on vision vary.

Why assessment matters

An eye-care professional may assess visual acuity, eye alignment and movement, focusing, refraction, binocular vision and eye health. In children, early assessment matters because persistent misalignment can be associated with amblyopia. A new squint or double vision in an adult needs prompt medical assessment.

Treatment options

Treatment depends on age, cause, symptoms and test results. Options can include glasses, amblyopia treatment, prisms, selected injections or eye-muscle surgery. Surgery changes muscle position or tension but may not remove the need for glasses or other treatment.

Risks and follow-up

Surgical risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, double vision, under- or over-correction, recurrence, anaesthetic complications and further treatment. Outcomes cannot be guaranteed and follow-up should be tailored to the patient.

The NHS squint guide explains symptoms, assessment and treatment. Use Revitalize’s assessment route to confirm the named contracted eye specialist and facility before travel.