Strabismus
Strabismus Treatment: Modern Diagnostic and Surgical Approaches
Strabismus is a condition in which the eyes are not properly aligned and fail to focus on the same point simultaneously. Commonly known as "crossed eyes," strabismus may occur in both children and adults and can affect not only appearance but also visual quality and depth perception.
At Özel Sistem Eye Medical Center, strabismus is evaluated using advanced diagnostic technologies and treated with personalized medical and surgical approaches by our experienced ophthalmology specialists.
What is Strabismus?
Under normal conditions, the eye muscles work in coordination to ensure both eyes move together and focus on the same target. Strabismus develops when this muscular balance or neurological coordination is disrupted, causing one eye to deviate inward, outward, upward, or downward.
The condition may be constant or intermittent and can affect binocular vision and visual development.
Causes of Strabismus
Strabismus may develop due to various underlying factors, including:
- Genetic predisposition
- Refractive errors such as hyperopia
- Neurological disorders
- Trauma or injury
- Thyroid-related eye disease
- Diabetes-related nerve involvement
- Congenital or developmental eye disorders
A comprehensive ophthalmic examination is essential to identify the underlying cause and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Strabismus in Children and Adults
Pediatric Strabismus
Early diagnosis is extremely important in children, as untreated strabismus may lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) and impaired visual development.
Adult Strabismus
Adult strabismus may develop later in life or persist from childhood. In adults, the condition may cause double vision (diplopia), visual discomfort, and functional difficulties in daily life.
Strabismus Treatment Options
Treatment is individualized according to the patient's age, degree of deviation, visual status, and underlying cause.
Available treatment options may include:
- Prescription glasses
- Amblyopia (patching) therapy
- Orthoptic eye exercises
- Prism glasses
- Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections
- Strabismus surgery
Strabismus Surgery
Strabismus surgery is performed to restore proper eye alignment by adjusting the strength and positioning of the extraocular muscles responsible for eye movements.
The procedure may involve:
- Weakening overactive muscles
- Strengthening weaker muscles
- Repositioning selected eye muscles
Surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia in children and under local or general anesthesia in adults, depending on the clinical situation.
Recovery After Surgery
Recovery following strabismus surgery is generally comfortable and well-tolerated. Temporary redness, mild irritation, and tearing may occur during the first few days after surgery.
Most patients can return to daily activities within a short period, while regular postoperative follow-up remains important for optimal healing and visual adaptation.
When Should You See an Ophthalmologist?
Professional evaluation is recommended if:
- Eye deviation persists in infants or children
- Double vision develops suddenly
- Head tilting or abnormal face positioning is noticed
- Eye alignment worsens with fatigue
- Visual discomfort or focusing difficulties occur
At Özel Sistem Eye Medical Center, our experienced ophthalmology team provides comprehensive diagnosis, pediatric and adult strabismus management, and advanced surgical treatment tailored to each patient's individual needs.