Squint surgery adjusts the small muscles that move the eye so the two eyes line up. Plastic and reconstructive work addresses the eyelids and surrounding tissue. Both have been part of this hospital since it opened.
Six small muscles move each eye. In a squint the balance of pull between them is uneven and the eye turns. Surgery strengthens or weakens specific muscles until the eyes align.
It is worth being clear about what it does. Surgery corrects alignment. If one eye also has reduced vision from amblyopia, that is a separate problem needing separate treatment, usually alongside.
The eye is never removed from the socket during squint surgery — the most common fear patients bring us, and not what happens.
Adults with long-standing or newly developed squints are operated with good results.
Which muscles to adjust is calculated beforehand from precise measurements.
Carried out in our sterile operation theatre, with next-day review.
Correction of drooping, in-turning or out-turning eyelids, repair of eyelid and periocular injuries after trauma, removal of lid lesions with reconstruction, and procedures to restore tear drainage. The same surgeon carries these out.
We explain what alignment result is realistic, whether more than one procedure may be needed, and what it will cost. A proportion of patients need a second adjustment — we tell you honestly if your case carries that likelihood.
No. Adults can be operated with good results for both alignment and, often, double vision. There is no age at which it stops being worth discussing.
No. The eye stays in the socket throughout. The surgeon works on the muscles attached to its surface.
Not by itself. Surgery corrects alignment; amblyopia is treated separately with glasses, patching or exercises. Both are usually part of one plan.
Sometimes. Muscle response varies between individuals. We tell you beforehand if your case is likely to need a further adjustment.
Talk to our team about squint & plastic surgery — we'll assess your eyes and explain your options clearly. No pressure, just honest advice.