A squint (also known as Strabismus or Cross-eyes) is an eye misalignment condition in which the eyes are unable to focus in the same direction at the same time. For example, one eye might turn inward, outward, upward, or downward while the other stares straight ahead.
There are many causes behind it, such as:
- Nerve disorders
- Neurological conditions
- Uncorrected refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism)
- Eye muscle imbalances
- Injuries
- Other medical conditions
It can affect any age group, but it is most commonly observed in children aged 6 months to 3 years. If left untreated, strabismus can lead to amblyopia, or lazy eye, double vision, eye strain, headaches, and poor depth perception. While some types of squint cannot be prevented, early detection and intervention may help decrease complications. If you are in Thane, schedule a visit to your near by squint specialists so that the right treatment can be decided on in time.
The treatment can include non-surgical treatments (eyeglasses or contact lenses, orthoptic therapy), but when these treatments fail to show the desired result, the best squint specialists in Mumbai can recommend surgery. Equip yourself with all the knowledge about the squint surgery so that you can make an informed decision with your doctor.
What is Squint Surgery?
Squint surgery is an eye operation performed to correct the misaligned eyes. It is done by tightening or loosening the six tiny muscles (extraocular muscles) around the eyeball so both eyes point in the same direction.
Is Squint Surgery Safe?
It’s generally a short and safe procedure when done under the guidance of squint surgery specialists like the ones in the Wavikar Eye Institute. The success rate of this surgery is usually high, approximately above 80%. It is under anesthesia to improve appearance and may help vision.
How Can Squint Surgery Benefit You?
When all the other nonsurgical or lifestyle management efforts fail to produce the desired result. The best ophthalmologist at Wavikar Eye Institute can order diagnostic tests like the visual acuity test, cover test, corneal light reflex test, and refraction test. They can recommend the surgery because the following benefits outweigh the risks.
Here are some benefits:
- Help eyes look more natural and aligned.
- It may help improve how clearly you see.
- Decrease eye strain, headaches, and tiredness.
- Help make it easier to judge distances for daily tasks such as walking, driving, or pouring liquids.
- Boosts confidence and reduces social discomfort.
- In children, timely surgical intervention can help avoid permanent weak vision (lazy eye).
- It helps encourage the brain to use both eyes.
Before Squint Surgery
- The eye doctor will evaluate your eye alignment, vision, and glasses power.
- Proper assessment of eye movements to plan exactly which muscles to operate on.
- Diagnostic tests such as visual acuity (how clearly you see), the cover test (how the eyes move), and refraction (glasses number) will be ordered.
- Based on the tests, the eye surgeon at Wavikar Eye Institute will determine how much to tighten or loosen the eye muscles for the best alignment.
- The procedure, risks, benefits, and alternatives are explained in simple language to the family.
- You will be asked to sign a consent form.
- Basic health checks are done, ensuring you are fit for anesthesia and surgery.
During Squint Surgery
- Anesthesia is used to prevent any pain during the operation.
- The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia.
- The eye surgeon will make a small cut on the white of the eye to reach the muscles.
- They might tighten or loosen the eye muscles for the best alignment.
- Dissolving stitches are used.
After Squint Surgery
- The eye may look red or watery or feel scratchy for a few days.
- Eye drops or ointment may be recommended to prevent infection and reduce swelling.
- Doctors advise avoiding rubbing the eyes, swimming, and heavy play for a short time.
- Regular follow-up visits are needed to check alignment and healing.
- Sometimes glasses, eye exercises, or patching are still required to fine-tune vision and keep both eyes working in sync.
How Many Days Does It Take to Recover From Squint Surgery?”
It can take several weeks to fully recover from squint surgery.
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First Week
Your doctor can recommend returning to light daily activities, which is often possible within 5-7 days.
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2 Weeks to 3 Months
With proper doctor’s guidance, most discomfort and redness should resolve by the end of the first month.
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Full Recovery
Full recovery can be expected within 3 months; however, it can take longer, especially in more complex cases.
What Are The Risks Of Squint Surgery?
It’s usually a short and safe procedure when performed under guidance using advanced technologies. However, like any other procedure, it can have some risks.
- Permanent double vision
- Infection, buildup of pus, or buildup of fluid around the eye
- Eye muscles slipping out of position
- Loss of vision (very rare)
- Further surgery is required to fully correct the squint
How Much Does a Squint Surgery Cost?
The price may vary across different locations in India:
- Thane: ₹25,000 to ₹60,000
- Mumbai: ₹30,000 to ₹75,000
- Bangalore: ₹30,000 to ₹75,000
- Chennai: ₹30,000 to ₹70,000
- Hyderabad: ₹25,000 to ₹60,000
Conclusion
Getting a successful outcome from squint surgery is not just about the operation itself. Contacting the right doctor for the correct diagnosis, following all medical instructions carefully, and sticking to recovery tips are just as important. Knowing when to contact your eye surgeon for follow-up or any issues ensures the best long-term results.
When to Consult the Doctor After Squint Surgery
Contact your doctor immediately at Wavikar Eye Institute if you experience:
- Severe pain
- Sudden changes in vision
- Increasing redness
- Discharge, or fever
FAQs
What is the age limit for squint surgery?
There is no strict age limit for squint surgery. It can be done even in babies or elderly people. Early treatment ensures the best eye alignment; however, adults can also benefit from it.
How painful is squint surgery?
The surgery itself is pain-free because of the use of general anesthesia under a skilled professional. After surgery, mild discomfort or redness can happen but is generally manageable with prescribed care.
Can glasses correct squint eyes?
Glasses can be helpful in mild squint cases, particularly if caused by focusing issues (such as long-sightedness). However, most squints require surgery for full correction.
