Strabismus, commonly known as crossed eyes or wandering eyes, is a condition that affects eye alignment and can result in double vision, poor depth perception, and eye strain. At CatchLife with our experienced ophthalmologist, Dr. Selim Güldiken, strabismus surgery is a safe and effective treatment option that can restore proper alignment to your eyes, improving your quality of life.
What Is Strabismus Surgery?
Strabismus surgery is a procedure that involves adjusting the position of the eye muscles to correct eye misalignment. The goal of the surgery is to improve eye alignment, reduce double vision, and enhance depth perception. The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours and is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia.
Benefits Of Strabismus Surgery
Strabismus surgery can offer several benefits, including:
• Improved eye alignment and appearance
• Enhanced depth perception
• Improved eye teaming and coordination
• Reduction or elimination of double vision
• Improved quality of life
Disadvantages Of Strabismus Surgery
Like all surgeries, strabismus surgery carries some risks, including:
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Reaction to anesthesia
• Overcorrection or undercorrection of eye alignment
• Double vision
• Decreased vision
• Scarring
Who Is A Good Candidate For Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)?
RLE may be a good option for individuals who are over the age of 40 and have presbyopia or other refractive errors. Additionally, you should be in good overall health, with no underlying medical conditions that may affect the healing process. During your consultation with our surgeon, Dr. Selim Güldiken, he will evaluate your eyes and medical history to determine whether RLE is the best option for you.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Strabismus Surgery?
Strabismus surgery may be a good option for patients who:
• Have persistent eye misalignment despite non-surgical treatments such as glasses, eye exercises, or prism lenses
• Experience double vision or other visual symptoms related to eye misalignment
• Have a stable eye prescription
• Overcorrection or undercorrection of eye alignment
• Are in good general health
• During your consultation, our ophthalmologists will evaluate your eye alignment and determine whether strabismus surgery is a suitable option for your unique needs and goals.
What To Expect During The Procedure
Strabismus surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the ophthalmologist will make a small incision in the tissue surrounding the eye to access the eye muscles. The muscles will then be adjusted to correct the eye misalignment. After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short time before being released to go home.
What To Expect During The Recovery
Recovery time varies from patient to patient but generally, patients can return to normal activities within a few days to a week after surgery. The eyes may be red and swollen, and some discomfort or soreness is normal. Eye drops and medication may be prescribed to help manage pain and prevent infection. Our team will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your eyes during the recovery period.
Strabismus surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the ophthalmologist will make a small incision in the tissue surrounding the eye to access the eye muscles. The muscles will then be adjusted to correct the eye misalignment. After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short time before being released to go home.
Is Strabismus Surgery Right For You?
If you’re experiencing eye misalignment or related visual symptoms, strabismus surgery may be the right option for you. However, it’s important to discuss your options with our experienced ophthalmologists and consider the potential risks and benefits before making a decision. We are dedicated to providing personalized care and will work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your unique needs and goals.
F.A.Q.
What Is The Success Rate Of Strabismus Surgery?
Strabismus surgery has a high success rate, with most patients experiencing improved alignment and visual function. However, it is important to keep in mind that every patient’s experience is unique, and there may be risks and potential complications.
How Long Does Strabismus Surgery Take?
Strabismus surgery typically takes about 1-2 hours to complete.
Is Strabismus Surgery Painful?
Strabismus surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. However, you may experience some discomfort, redness, and swelling in the days and weeks following the surgery.
Will I Need To Wear An Eye Patch After Strabismus Surgery?
In most cases, you will not need to wear an eye patch after strabismus surgery. However, your surgeon may recommend wearing a temporary prism eyeglass to help align your eyes.
Can Strabismus Surgery Be Performed On Adults?
Yes, strabismus surgery can be performed on adults. However, the success rate may be lower than in children, and the recovery time may be longer due to decreased elasticity in the eye muscles.
How Long Does The Effect Of Strabismus Surgery Last?
The effect of strabismus surgery can last for many years, but it is possible for the eyes to become misaligned again over time. Regular eye exams can help monitor your eye alignment and detect any changes.
How Long Will I Need To Take Off From Work After Strabismus Surgery?
The typical recovery period after strabismus surgery is approximately one week, and you may need to take time off from work during this time. However, this can vary depending on your specific job duties and how quickly you heal. It’s best to discuss your individual needs with your surgeon to determine the appropriate amount of time off.
