What is strabismus?
Strabismus is a disorder in which the eyes are misaligned and do not point in the same direction at the same time. One eye may turn in toward the nose (esotropia) or out toward the side of the face (exotropia). This condition can be caused by nerve injury, diabetes, brain tumor, stroke, or it may be present at birth. When the eyes are misaligned because of strabismus, it can cause vision problems such as double vision and loss of depth perception. West County Ophthalmology offers diagnostic testing to determine the extent of the issue and provides a variety of treatment options to help restore ideal vision. If you have strabismus in Chesterfield or O'Fallon, MO, then please contact one of our facilities to schedule an appointment.
How is strabismus treated?
When strabismus is diagnosed, typically the most effective treatment option is surgery. Surgery is provided to tighten or loosen muscles around the eyes so that the eyes can move more naturally. Strabismus surgery is usually performed in about 1 – 2 hours under general anesthesia. Your surgeon will make an incision to get access to your eye's muscles. Depending on the dominant direction your eye points (esotropia or exotropia), the muscles can be cut and placed in a different position on the eye or shortened to ensure tighter control of the eye. Once your procedure is complete, your vision surgeons will monitor your healing progress in a series of follow-up appointments.
Alternative treatment options that may be available include prism lenses and vision therapy. These options are typically not as successful as surgical intervention, however.
Experienced Care for Strabismus
Strabismus can lead to serious vision impairment and surgery may be necessary to correct it. To learn more about this treatment option, contact the vision care professionals at West County Ophthalmology and ask for a comprehensive exam and consultation.
