Strabismus (crossed eyes) and double vision
What is strabismus?
Strabismus, also known as a squint, is a condition in which the eye movements are not properly coordinated. Sometimes the visual acuity of the two eyes differs as well, and usually one eye is clearly out of line. That eye may turn inward, outward or sometimes up or down. At its core, the balance between the two eyes is disturbed.
We see strabismus mainly in children, shortly after birth or a little later. In adulthood, it can develop after, for example, an accident, a nerve disease or a brain haemorrhage. Double vision can sometimes accompany a squint.
Treatment of strabismus
If glasses are not enough to correct the squint and you want your child’s eyes straightened, strabismus surgery may be an option. Adults are eligible for this eye-muscle surgery too. Important to know: during this procedure we shorten or reposition the eye muscles so the eyes line up again. We treat only the eye muscles, so your visual acuity does not improve as a result. Often one operation is enough to correct the eye position, although sometimes several are needed for an optimal result.
The procedure
The strabismus operation takes place under general anaesthetic, as a day admission to hospital. As a parent or guardian, you may stay with your child until they are under anaesthetic.
Afterwards, there is usually little pain in the eyes. There are, however, a few restrictions on certain activities for a while. One week after the procedure, a check-up with the ophthalmologist follows.
How much does an operation for strabismus cost?
During the consultation, you get a clear picture of the costs of your specific treatment. This procedure is covered by health insurance.