Can Strabismus be Corrected in Children?

Strabismus, often called crossed eyes or eye misalignment, is a condition that commonly affects children. The good news is that strabismus can be corrected in kids, especially when detected early. If your child shows symptoms like double vision, eye strain, or noticeable eye turning, pediatric strabismus surgery can help. At Pennsylvania Surgery and Laser Center in Philadelphia, PA, our ophthalmologists specialize in caring for children with strabismus, offering effective surgery to help realign the eyes and support healthy vision development. 

What is strabismus, and what causes it in children? 

Strabismus happens when the muscles controlling the eyes don't work together properly, causing one eye to turn inward, outward, upward, or downward. In children, this can be due to genetic factors, nerve or muscle problems, or sometimes vision issues like farsightedness. Identifying the causes of strabismus early is important because untreated misalignment can lead to poor vision development or "lazy eye" (amblyopia). Knowing the causes helps our team decide the ideal treatment plan, including whether surgery is needed. 

What are the symptoms of strabismus in children? 

Parents often notice signs of strabismus in their children by the way the eyes look. Common symptoms include one eye that doesn't line up with the other, frequent squinting, or the child tilting their head to focus better. Children might also complain of double vision or have trouble focusing on objects, although younger kids may not be able to express these symptoms clearly. If your child's eyes appear crossed or misaligned, or if they seem to avoid using one eye, it's time to get a professional evaluation. 

How is strabismus diagnosed and treated in kids? 

Diagnosing strabismus in children involves a thorough eye exam to check eye alignment, muscle function, and vision clarity. Our team uses the latest techniques to assess your child's condition carefully. While some cases can improve with glasses or vision therapy, many children benefit from strabismus surgery to correct eye muscle imbalances. This surgery is designed to gently adjust the muscles so the eyes can work together properly, reducing symptoms and helping the brain develop normal vision. 

Is strabismus surgery worth it for children? 

Many parents ask if strabismus surgery is worth it for their child. The answer is often absolutely yes. Early treatment is crucial because correcting eye alignment during childhood supports proper vision development and can prevent complications like lazy eye. Surgery not only improves how the eyes look but also enhances depth perception and reduces the chances of long-term vision problems. Most children recover quickly and experience improved vision and confidence after surgery. 

Learn about strabismus surgery in Philadelphia, PA 

At Pennsylvania Surgery and Laser Center in Philadelphia, our ophthalmologists are experienced in performing strabismus surgery for children in a safe, caring environment. The procedure is usually done using general anesthesia to keep your child comfortable. Recovery is typically smooth, and we provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure the best results possible. If your child is showing signs of crossed eyes, double vision, or eye strain, don't hesitate to reach out and learn how strabismus surgery can help. 

For care and treatment of your child's eye misalignment, contact us today. Early intervention can make the difference in your child's vision and overall well-being.