Squint Surgery (Strabismus)

Why (Purpose of Squint Surgery)

Squint surgery is performed to correct strabismus, a condition where the eyes do not align properly and point in different directions.
If left untreated—especially in children—it can lead to:

  • Amblyopia (lazy eye), where vision in the misaligned eye deteriorates
  • Double vision in adults
  • Abnormal head posture, as the person tries to compensate for the misalignment

Early treatment is crucial, particularly in children, to prevent long-term vision issues.

What (Understanding Strabismus)

Strabismus (commonly known as a squint) is a condition where one eye turns inwards, outwards, upwards, or downwards, while the other eye looks straight ahead.

  • Affects about 1 in 20 children, often before age five
  • Can also occur in adults
  • Can cause: Misaligned eyes (visible squint), Double vision, Amblyopia (lazy eye) in children, Head tilting or turning to see better

How (Surgical Procedure and Recovery)

  • Squint surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves adjusting the muscles that control eye movement. The surgeon either tightens or loosens specific eye muscles to help align the eyes properly. The goal is to improve both the appearance of eye alignment and visual function. After surgery, it’s normal for the eye to feel sore, itchy, or slightly uncomfortable for a few days. Some patients may also experience temporary double vision as the brain adjusts to the new eye position. Full recovery can take a few weeks, and follow-up appointments are important, especially for children, to monitor healing and ensure the eyes remain correctly aligned.