Strabismus Treatment

By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Prof. Akif Ozdamar, on Sep 15, 2024

Strabismus surgery is not recommended for the following groups of patients: 

● Patients with previous ischemia

● Patients at high risk of developing anterior segment ischemia

● Patients incompatible with the risks associated with anesthesia

● When the condition is variable or unstable

● Patients with other health problems, including infections around the eyes or tumors

Patients should understand the risks associated with strabismus surgery and that further procedures may be necessary.

How many trips do I need to take abroad to complete the procedure? 

You will need 1 trip abroad to complete the whole procedure and follow up with your local doctor. 

How long should you stay in the hospital after the surgery? 

An overnight stay is not required.

A thorough eye examination is necessary before the strabismus surgery, or strabismus treatment is set to begin. Patients should provide the eye doctor with any information relating to their medical condition, including diagnosis, previous surgical procedures, preoperative measures, and medications they use. The doctor will perform his own tests and then formulate a surgical plan to treat the condition.

Strabismus surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia. The eye surgeon considers several factors before starting and proceeding with the surgery, including the patient's age, the location of the damaged muscles, and the angle of the strabismus. Several muscles affected by strabismus may be operated on during one procedure. Strabismus surgery can be broken down into two main types of procedures: reducing surgery or intensifying surgery. This means that the muscles controlling the eye are strengthened or weakened to achieve the desired result. Strabismus surgery takes only a few hours, and patients usually leave the hospital on the same day.

Although the recovery time depends on the scope of the procedure, most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a day or two of treatment. Patients can expect some the side effects during the recovery period, such as redness, soreness, or discomfort. These postoperative symptoms disappear completely in a few weeks to a few months. Generally, patients can see their final results within a month or two of surgery.

Risks and complications associated with strabismus surgery include one or more of the following: 

● Strabismus revision surgery 

● Anterior segment ischemia 

● Globe perforation 

● Stretched scar syndrome

● Vortex vein bleeding 

● Loss of vision 

● Restriction of eye movement 

● Eyelid abnormalities

Strabismus surgery side effects include: 

● Pain 

● Discomfort when rolling the eyes or when a light source is present 

● Soreness 

● Redness 

● Vomiting

● Allergic reactions

● Conjunctival inclusion cyst

● Slipped muscles

According to the studies, the average strabismus surgery success rate is between 30 and 80%, depending on the desired result. If a cosmetic improvement is desired, the success rate is 80%, if improved vision is desired, the success rate is closer to 50%.

Some patients may still have some degree of misalignment after strabismus surgery, but according to the results, it is worth undergoing this surgery to increase the quality of life. The cost for a strabismus treatment can range between € 750 and € 5,000 according to the scope, technique, and location of the surgery. 

Are There Any Alternatives to Strabismus Surgery?

Eye exercises, eyeglasses/contact lenses, vision therapy, or Botox injections can help treat strabismus, but the results may not be as satisfactory or permanent as surgery.

How Soon Can I Wear Glasses or Contact Lenses After Strabismus Surgery?

You can wear glasses immediately after surgery, but you should wait at least 2 weeks before using your contact lenses.

What Is the Strabismus Surgery Revision Rate?

The Strabismus surgery revision rate is around 30%.