Sunaina Netra Chikitsalaya
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Squint surgery

An operation to adjust the muscles that move the eye, so that both eyes point the same way.

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Two eyes seen from the front. One eye is turned outward, with a dotted line showing where it looks. The eye muscle on that side is highlighted and adjusted, the eyes realign, and both gaze lines meet on one point.Eye muscle

At a glance

  • Duration

    About 30 to 60 minutes

    Usually.

  • Anaesthesia

    General anaesthesia for children (you sleep)

    Sometimes drops or an injection in adults.

  • Going home

    Usually the same day

  • Back to routine

    Children often return to school within a week

    Dr. Kumar will advise.

What squint surgery is

A squint (strabismus) is when the eyes do not point the same way. Six small muscles move each eye. Surgery changes how these muscles pull, so the eyes line up better.

What the surgeon does

Dr. Kumar opens the thin surface of the eye and moves, loosens or tightens the muscles that move it. A muscle may be moved back to weaken its pull, or shortened to strengthen it. The eyeball is not taken out. Stitches that dissolve are used.

Who it is for

Children and adults with a squint that does not settle with glasses or patching. For children, surgery can help the eyes work together. In adults it may improve looks, comfort and the field of view. The eyes may not be perfectly straight, and some people need more than one operation. Dr. Kumar will tell you what applies to you.

Honest risks

  • Common: red, sore eye and a gritty feeling for some days; double vision for a time.
  • The eyes may be over- or under-corrected, and may need another operation.
  • Rare: infection, bleeding, a slipped muscle, or loss of sight.
  • Anaesthesia has its own small risks. The anaesthetist will explain them.
  • Call us at once if: the eye is very red, painful, discharging, or sight worsens.

Before, on the day, after

The usual order of things. Dr. Kumar will tell you what applies to you.

  1. Before

    Check-up

    Sight, glasses and eye movements are tested. Dr. Kumar explains the plan and what the eyes may look like after.

  2. Before

    Fasting

    For a child's anaesthetic you will be told exactly when to stop food and drink. Follow this strictly.

  3. On the day

    Surgery

    The child is asleep. The muscles are adjusted and closed with dissolving stitches.

  4. After

    Recovery room

    The child wakes, is checked, and usually goes home the same day with drops.

Recovery

How healing usually goes.

  • First day

    Soreness

    The eye is red and sore. Use the drops and give pain relief as advised.

  • First week

    Healing

    Redness eases. Keep water and dirt away from the eye and do not let the child rub it. No swimming.

  • Four to six weeks

    Settling

    The eyes settle in their new position. Dr. Kumar checks the alignment and whether glasses or patching are still needed.

Questions about squint surgery

Is the surgery safe?

It is a common operation. As with any surgery there are risks, which Dr. Kumar will explain, including those of anaesthesia.

Will the eyes be perfectly straight?

The aim is much better alignment. They may not be perfect, and a second operation is sometimes needed.

Is surgery needed if glasses are enough?

Not always. If glasses straighten the eyes, surgery may not be needed. Dr. Kumar will tell you.

Will my child still need glasses or a patch?

Often yes. Surgery changes the muscles, not the focusing power of the eye.

What about double vision?

It is common for a short time after surgery, especially in adults, and often settles. Tell Dr. Kumar if it lasts.

Related

Where this fits in your care.

Your eyes deserve one doctor who knows them.

Book a visit with Dr. Kumar, or call and we will help you choose a time.

Book appointmentCall +91 749 107 3667