If you're experiencing problems with your eye position, such as one eye turning in or out, you may need to be referred to an ophthalmologist at a hospital for diagnosis and treatment of strabismus. Strabismus is a condition where the eyes don't line up properly and can't focus on the same object at the same time. This can cause problems with depth perception and can affect your ability to see clearly. It can result in your brain "turning off " the message from one eye, and ultimately loss of vision in that eye (amblyopia).
If you're referred to an ophthalmologist for assessment of strabismus, they will conduct a series of tests to diagnose the condition and determine the best course of treatment. Treatment options for strabismus may include prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses, eye exercises, or in some cases, surgery.
It's important to get diagnosed and treated for strabismus as early as possible to prevent the condition from worsening and causing further damage to your eyesight. Your ophthalmologist will work with you to create a personalised treatment plan and monitor your progress throughout the treatment period. With the right treatment, it's possible to improve your eye alignment and your vision, and prevent long-term damage to your eyes.
At Blackrock Health, we have earned a long-standing reputation for excellence in private medical and surgical care. This includes the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the eye, ear, nose, and throat, for both adults and children Our three hospitals offer easy and speedy access to expert care in these fields. We have a renowned team of consultants, and we use the latest techniques and technologies. This means we can aim to provide you with a fast, accurate diagnoses and an effective and tailored treatment plan. We understand that experiencing problems with your eyes, ears, nose, or throat can be worrying. That is why we are committed to providing compassionate and reassuring care. Whether you need a routine check-up or a more complex procedure, we are here to help. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the highest standards of care and support - throughout your journey to better health.
Ophthalmology is the study and treatment of eye disorders. Our ophthalmology team treats all eye conditions. Our team will look after you throughout your diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
As a Blackrock Health patient, you'll be cared for by our team of consultant ophthalmologists and consultant ophthalmic surgeons. All our consultants offer care and expertise in their own specialties and continue to lead research in vision sciences. Many of our eye specialists also consult in major teaching hospitals.
The team includes:
- Consultant ophthalmologists
- Consultant ophthalmic surgeons
- Ophthalmic clinical nurse specialists
- Ophthalmic technicians
- Optometrists
Please note that we do not offer an emergency service for eye health issues. If you have the following symptoms, you should call 112 or 999:
- Sudden or severe eye pain
- Loss of sight
- Lots of flashing lights
- Chemicals in your eye
- Severe eye trauma
Our ophthalmic surgeons who operate on children, and the anaesthetists who put them asleep, are all highly skilled in treating children and also work in specialised eye units in the Children's hospitals.
What is Strabismus?
Strabismus “Squint” is a misalignment of the eye muscles so that the two eyes are orientated in different directions. Strabismus may be caused by optical defocusing or weak eye muscles and treatment depends on the cause. Eyes may be turned inwards called Esotropia or outwards called Exotropia. Strabismus occurs in 4% of children and if left untreated can result in loss of vision in the deviating eye.
Strabismus may occur in infancy, later in childhood or in adulthood. Strabismus occurring in adults for the first time may be associated with other diseases including diabetes, thyroid disease and high blood pressure to name but a few.
Treatment of strabismus includes some and occasionally all of the following, glasses, patching and eye surgery. Patching is a term describing the use of a patch to cover the stronger eye, so that the weaker eye must work harder, regaining some of its function.
Poor vision in children can lead to poor performance in school, difficulty learning, low self-esteem and poor socialisation skills. Correction of strabismus, with glasses or surgery, improves self-image and confidence in both children and adults.
How do I get this?
You will need a referral letter from your GP, optician or consultant before you make an appointment.
Is this insured?
Not all services are covered by health insurance. To find out if you're covered, please check your health insurance before your visit. You can do this on our health insurance cover check page, or by contacting your health insurer.
How do I pay?
If you do not have health insurance or your health plan does not cover the full cost, you will need to pay the balance due before your treatment or procedure. You may be able to claim back some fees on your insurance. To pay an excess not covered by your insurance or any other inpatient fees, please visit our payment page. If you have any queries about paying for your care, please contact the finance team in your hospital.