Symptoms and background
A squint (strabismus) means that both eyes are not directed at the same target at the same time. One eye deviates inwards, outwards, upwards or downwards – permanently or intermittently.
The causes are varied: an imbalance of the eye muscles, different prescriptions in each eye (e.g. long-sightedness), neurological influences or congenital factors. A squint can also appear later in life, for example after an accident or a stroke.
In children, an untreated squint can mean that the affected eye does not develop properly and becomes amblyopic. In adults, a newly occurring squint often causes disturbing double vision.
What modern medicine can do
Treatment depends on the cause and the extent of the squint.
Conservative measures include glasses (particularly for an inward squint caused by long-sightedness), prism glasses (for small angles of squint or double vision), occlusion therapy or, in certain cases, botulinum toxin injections.
If these measures are not sufficient or the angle of squint is larger, surgery can be a sensible option. The eye muscles are shortened or repositioned in a targeted way in order to correct the alignment of the eyes.
At Argus Augenklinik, treatment is based on a careful preliminary examination. Operations are performed by experienced surgeons. We discuss realistically with you what result can be achieved.
Strengths of Argus Augenklinik
Experienced strabismus surgeons
Specialised in squint surgery for children and adults
Close cooperation with the vision school
Orthoptists and surgeons work hand in hand
Botulinum toxin as a treatment option
An addition or alternative to squint surgery
Realistic information
We explain openly what is possible after surgery – and what is not
Aftercare & orthoptic support
Surgery is usually followed by vision training to stabilise the result
Treatment process
-
Orthoptic preliminary examination
With detailed squint diagnostics, we measure the angle of squint, assess binocular vision and determine the refractive values. -
2. Surgical planning
We plan the procedure individually, selecting the muscles to be operated on and calculating the dosage. In a consultation, we inform you about every step. -
3. The operation
We carry out the procedure on an outpatient basis. In children, it is performed under general anaesthetic, in adults usually under local anaesthetic. It takes about 30–60 minutes. -
4. Check-up the following day
We check how the eye is healing, measure the angle of squint and give you an initial assessment of the result. -
5. Vision school & aftercare
We support the further development of binocular vision with targeted vision training and regular check-ups.
Frequently asked questions
Does health insurance cover the costs?
Yes, if there is a medical indication – squint surgery is covered by health insurance.
Can adults still have surgery?
Yes – squint surgery is also worthwhile in adulthood, for example for double vision or for aesthetic reasons.
Does the operation have to be repeated?
In some cases, yes – sometimes a second operation is needed in order to achieve the desired result.
Is squint surgery painful?
After the procedure, the eye is irritated and red for a few days. More severe pain is rare, however. Eye drops and, if needed, painkillers help.
Does my child need surgery?
Not always. Depending on the angle of squint and its cause, glasses or prism glasses may be enough. We discuss all the options together with you.