Squint Surgery

What is Squint Surgery ?

A squint, or strabismus, is a condition in which the eyes do not align properly. One eye turns inwards, upwards, downwards, or outwards, while the other one focuses at one spot. Surgery to correct a squint may be recommended if other treatments are not suitable or do not help. The operation involves moving the muscles that control eye movement so that the eyes line up better.

What happens during Squint Surgery ?

Squint surgery is done under general anaesthetic and usually takes less than an hour. During the procedure: the eye is held open using an instrument called a lid speculum. The operation involves moving the muscles that control eye movement so that the eyes line up better. The surgeon detaches part of the muscle connected to the eye and moves it into a new position so that the eyes point in the same direction the muscles are fixed in their new position with dissolvable stitches.

What happens after Squint Surgery ?

After the surgery, a pad may be placed over the treated eye. This is normally removed the next day, or sometimes before the patient goes home. The eye is likely to be sore for at least a few days. The patient may be given painkillers to reduce discomfort and some eyedrops to help with healing.