Eye Asymmetry: Is It Strabismus or Something Else? - Ophthalmology

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Asymmetry of the eyeballs?


I have noticed that my right pupil is slightly turned inward, while my left pupil is positioned a bit higher than the right one (the left pupil has some distance from the lower eyelid, but the right one is touching the lower eyelid).
Is this strabismus? I have been undergoing examinations, but no one has mentioned this to me.
Could it be because I didn't bring it up? I recall a doctor mentioning in my childhood that this might be the reason for my severe myopia (800 degrees).
Should this be treated? Should I have corrected it earlier? Thank you.

Jiao Lv de Gao San Sheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/28

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Dear anxious senior high school student,
I apologize, but I cannot diagnose based on your description.
I recommend that you visit an ophthalmologist for a proper examination.
However, if your condition does not affect your vision, treatment may not be necessary.

The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses can only serve as a reference; it is essential to seek care at a medical facility if needed.

I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Best regards,
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2016/02/28

More Info


Understanding eye asymmetry can be quite complex, especially when it comes to conditions like strabismus. Based on your description, it seems that you are noticing a difference in the positioning of your pupils, with the right eye appearing to turn inward and the left eye being slightly higher. This could indeed suggest a form of strabismus, which is a condition where the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at an object.

Strabismus can manifest in various forms, including esotropia (where one or both eyes turn inward) and exotropia (where one or both eyes turn outward). The fact that your right eye appears to be closer to the lower eyelid while the left eye is positioned higher could indicate an imbalance in the muscles that control eye movement. This misalignment can lead to issues such as double vision, depth perception problems, and in some cases, it can contribute to the development of amblyopia, or "lazy eye," particularly if it occurs during childhood.

Regarding your concern about high myopia (800 degrees), it is important to note that significant refractive errors like this can indeed be associated with strabismus. The relationship between strabismus and myopia is not entirely straightforward; while strabismus can lead to amblyopia, high myopia can also occur independently of strabismus. However, some studies suggest that individuals with strabismus may be more prone to developing higher degrees of myopia.

As for treatment, it is crucial to have a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist who specializes in strabismus. They can assess the degree of misalignment and determine whether it is affecting your vision. Treatment options may include corrective lenses, vision therapy, or even surgery, depending on the severity of the condition and its impact on your daily life.

You mentioned that you have been undergoing regular eye checks but have not received specific feedback regarding your eye alignment. It is possible that the healthcare providers may not have noted any significant issues during your examinations, or perhaps the focus was primarily on your refractive error. It is essential to communicate your concerns clearly during your next visit. Make sure to mention the specific asymmetry you are observing and how long you have noticed it. This information can help the eye care professional provide a more thorough evaluation.

In summary, the asymmetry you are observing could be indicative of strabismus, and it is advisable to seek a detailed assessment from an eye care specialist. Early intervention can be beneficial, especially if there are concerns about the impact on your vision or quality of life. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your eye care provider are key to managing your eye health effectively.

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