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Strabismus (Eye Misalignment)

Esotropia, exotropia, vertical deviation, amblyopia prevention, surgical correction

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Strabismus (Eye Misalignment)?

Strabismus encompasses any deviation from binocular alignment: esotropia (inward), exotropia (outward), hypertropia (upward), and hypotropia (downward). Onset can be congenital, accommodative, paralytic, restrictive, or sensory. Each type has distinct natural history and treatment requirements.

Pediatric strabismus risks amblyopia (suppression of one eye's image) and loss of stereopsis if not treated before age 7 to 8 when visual cortex matures. Esotropia is more common in children, often associated with hyperopia. Adult-onset strabismus typically results from cranial nerve palsy, thyroid eye disease, orbital trauma, or decompensation of childhood phoria.

Treatment begins with full cycloplegic refraction and amblyopia therapy with patching or atropine penalization. Prism glasses help small angle deviations. Surgical strabismus correction adjusts extraocular muscle position by recession (weakening) or resection (strengthening), achieving 80 to 90 percent alignment success. Botulinum toxin offers temporary correction in selected cases.

Symptoms

Visible eye misalignment in mirror or photos
Double vision in adults
Squinting or closing one eye
Head tilt to fuse images
Reading difficulty and eyestrain

Risk Factors

Family history of strabismus
Hyperopia and uncorrected refractive errors
Premature birth and developmental delay
Thyroid eye disease
Cranial nerve injury or stroke

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When eye misalignment persists after 4 months of age
  • For sudden adult-onset double vision
  • For head tilt or face turn
  • For decreased depth perception
  • For pre-school vision screening

Treatment Methods

01
Full cycloplegic refraction and glasses
02
Patching or atropine for amblyopia
03
Prism correction for small deviations
04
Strabismus surgery (recession or resection)
05
Adjustable suture surgery in cooperative adults
06
Botulinum toxin chemodenervation in selected cases

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göz Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.