Squint Treatment

1. What is Squint?

Squint, medically known as strabismus, is a condition in which the two eyes are not properly aligned and may look in different directions. It can affect children or adults and may be constant or intermittent.

2. What causes Squint?

Squint can result from abnormal eye-muscle function, differences in refractive power between the eyes, problems with binocular vision, neurological conditions, congenital factors, trauma, or other underlying eye disorders.

3. What are the types of Squint?

Squint may be classified as inward turning (esotropia), outward turning (exotropia), upward or downward deviation (vertical strabismus), or more complex forms involving abnormal eye movements.

4. How is Squint diagnosed?

An ophthalmologist or strabismus specialist evaluates eye alignment, vision in each eye, eye movements, binocular function, and refractive error. Additional investigations may be required when an underlying neurological or structural condition is suspected.

5. Can Squint be treated without surgery?

Yes. Depending on the cause, treatment may include corrective glasses, contact lenses, patching, prism lenses, vision therapy in selected cases, or treatment of an underlying eye condition.

6. When is Squint Surgery recommended?

Surgery may be recommended when significant misalignment persists despite appropriate non-surgical treatment, or when surgery offers a better chance of improving alignment and binocular function. It may also be considered for certain adults seeking functional or cosmetic improvement.

7. How is Squint Surgery performed?

The surgeon adjusts one or more extraocular muscles by weakening, strengthening, or repositioning them to improve eye alignment. The procedure is commonly performed under general anesthesia in children and may use local or general anesthesia in adults depending on the case.

8. What are the benefits?

Treatment can improve eye alignment and, in appropriate patients, binocular function and depth perception. Correcting a visible squint may also improve confidence and social interaction.

9. What are the risks?

Potential complications include temporary redness, swelling, discomfort, under-correction or over-correction, residual or recurrent squint, double vision, infection, and, rarely, more serious eye complications.

10. Why consider Squint Treatment in India?

India has experienced pediatric ophthalmologists and strabismus specialists, advanced diagnostic facilities, modern eye hospitals, and comparatively affordable treatment costs for international patients.