Quick answer
What is squint (strabismus) surgery used for?
Squint surgery adjusts the muscles that move the eye so the eyes line up better. It is used for children and adults when glasses, patching or exercises are not enough, and it can improve eye alignment, help with double vision, and restore a more natural appearance. In children it is usually a day-case operation under general anaesthetic.
What is squint surgery?
Squint surgery is an operation to improve the alignment of the eyes in people with a squint (strabismus). The eyes are moved by small muscles attached to the outside of the eyeball; squint surgery tightens, loosens or repositions these muscles so the eyes point in the same direction.
Why it is done
Surgery is considered when glasses, patching or eye exercises have not fully corrected the squint, or to:
- improve the alignment and appearance of the eyes
- help the eyes work together, which in young children supports the development of 3D vision
- relieve double vision in adults
What happens
In children the operation is usually done under general anaesthetic, so they are asleep; adults may have a general or local anaesthetic. The surgeon reaches the eye muscles through the clear membrane covering the white of the eye, so there are no cuts in the skin. It is usually a day case, meaning you go home the same day.
Recovery
It is normal for the eye to be red, watery and uncomfortable for a week or two. You will usually be given drops to help healing and prevent infection. Most children are back to normal activities within a week, and you will be told when it is safe to return to school, work or swimming.
Risks and when to seek help
Squint surgery is generally very safe, but no operation is risk-free, and sometimes more than one operation is needed to get the best alignment. Get urgent advice if after surgery there is increasing pain, worsening vision, spreading redness or swelling, or a sticky discharge.
Common questions
- Is squint surgery safe?
- Squint surgery is a common and generally very safe operation. As with any surgery there are small risks, which your surgeon will explain. Serious complications are rare.
- Does squint surgery hurt afterwards?
- The eye is usually red, gritty and watery for one to two weeks, and may ache, especially when looking around. This is normal and settles. Simple pain relief and the drops you are given help during recovery.
- Will the squint come back?
- Surgery improves alignment for most people, but the eyes can drift again over time, and some people need more than one operation to get the best result. Your surgeon will discuss what to expect in your case.
- Can adults have squint surgery?
- Yes. Adults can have squint surgery to relieve double vision or to straighten the eyes. It can make a real difference to comfort, confidence and how the eyes work together.