Correction of Strabismus
Hello Dr.
Chang,
I have strabismus (exotropia) in my left eye.
I underwent two surgeries over ten years ago, but it has not been fully corrected.
Can glasses be used to correct this condition? Will they help others not notice my left eye's strabismus? Alternatively, should I consider surgery again? If so, what would the cost be? Does health insurance cover it? Is complete correction guaranteed? Thank you.
CLARE, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/14
Dr. Zhang Yuanze reply Ophthalmology
Hello CLARE: Based on your description, since two surgeries have not fully corrected the issue, surgical correction is not recommended.
This is because the surrounding tissues of the eyeball may have significant adhesions, making them difficult to manage and with a poor prognosis.
It is suggested that you wear glasses with prism correction.
If the angle is not too large, it can be fully corrected, and it will also help improve your appearance, making it less noticeable to others that you have strabismus.
Reply Date: 2000/11/14
More Info
Strabismus, commonly known as squint or crossed eyes, is a condition where the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at an object. This misalignment can lead to various visual problems, including double vision and depth perception issues. In your case, you mentioned having undergone two surgeries over a decade ago, but the strabismus has not been completely corrected.
To address your question about whether glasses can correct strabismus, the answer is somewhat nuanced. Glasses can indeed play a role in managing strabismus, particularly if there is a significant refractive error (like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism) contributing to the misalignment. In some cases, glasses can help align the eyes better by correcting these refractive errors, which may improve visual function and comfort. However, it is important to note that glasses alone typically do not correct strabismus; they may help improve vision but will not necessarily change the alignment of the eyes.
There are specialized lenses, such as prism glasses, that can be used to help manage strabismus. Prisms work by bending light before it enters the eye, which can help align the images seen by each eye. This can be particularly useful for individuals with small angles of strabismus or for those who experience double vision. However, prism glasses do not "cure" strabismus; they are more of a management tool.
Regarding surgical options, surgery is often considered when non-surgical methods, such as glasses or vision therapy, do not provide satisfactory results. The goal of strabismus surgery is to realign the eye muscles to achieve better alignment. The success of surgery can vary; while many patients experience significant improvement, complete correction is not guaranteed. Factors influencing the outcome include the type and severity of strabismus, the age of the patient, and any underlying conditions.
As for costs, the price of strabismus surgery can vary widely depending on several factors, including the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the case, and the geographical location of the procedure. In the United States, the cost can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per eye, and this does not typically include pre-operative evaluations or post-operative care. It's important to check with your health insurance provider regarding coverage; many insurance plans do cover strabismus surgery if it is deemed medically necessary. However, coverage for glasses, including prism glasses, may vary based on your specific plan.
In summary, while glasses can help manage strabismus, they are not a definitive solution for correcting the alignment of the eyes. Surgery may be a more effective option if you are seeking a more permanent correction. It is advisable to consult with an ophthalmologist or a strabismus specialist to discuss your specific case, evaluate your options, and determine the best course of action based on your individual needs and circumstances. They can provide you with detailed information on potential outcomes, costs, and whether your insurance will cover the procedure.
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