Squint surgery: what to expect before, during and after
Squint surgery changes the position or tension of one or more eye muscles to improve eye alignment. Your operation is planned from repeated orthoptic measurements and tailored to your visual needs, previous treatment and surgical goals.
NHS Consultant • Fellowship trained • Adults and children
The decision is individual
Surgery may be considered for persistent eye misalignment, troublesome double vision, an abnormal head posture, discomfort or the impact of a visible squint on confidence. Stephanie will explain what can realistically be achieved and whether non-surgical options should be tried first.
Improve alignment
The aim is to make the eyes straighter in the positions of gaze that matter most.
Reduce double vision
Surgery may enlarge the area of comfortable single vision or improve control.
Improve head posture
Better alignment may reduce a compensatory turn or tilt of the head.
A carefully planned pathway
Orthoptic measurements
Your eye alignment and movements are measured carefully, often on more than one occasion.
Pre-operative appointment
In the preceding week, measurements are confirmed and Stephanie reviews the surgical plan, consent and your questions.
Day of surgery
The procedure is usually performed as a day case under general anaesthetic.
Adjustment where required
Selected adult operations use an adjustable suture. Alignment is checked and refined after surgery if needed.
Early recovery
The eye is red and sore, but most people manage with drops and simple pain relief.
Follow-up
Review is usually around two weeks after surgery and again at two to three months.
Fine-tuning alignment after surgery
In selected adult cases, an eye muscle is secured with a stitch that can be adjusted after the main operation. Once you are awake and using your eyes normally, Stephanie checks the alignment and double vision.
If adjustment is needed, anaesthetic drops are used and the muscle position is refined. Many patients do not require any change.
What is normal after surgery?
Redness
The white of the eye can remain red for several weeks and gradually settles.
Discomfort
A gritty or pulling sensation is common and is usually controlled with simple pain relief.
Temporary blur or double vision
Vision can fluctuate while swelling settles and the brain adapts to the new alignment.
Eye drops
Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops are prescribed after the operation.
Time off
Return to work or school varies with comfort, work type and the extent of surgery.
Contact the team
Increasing pain, reduced vision or marked discharge should be reported promptly.
Hear directly from a patient
This verified testimonial describes the experience of being assessed and treated by Stephanie.
Questions about squint surgery
Squint surgery is generally performed under general anaesthetic as a day-case procedure.
This depends on the pattern of your squint, previous surgery and the planned correction. Stephanie will explain the recommended muscles and eyes.
Alignment can change over time. Further treatment is occasionally required, particularly in complex or longstanding cases.
The aim and likelihood of improving double vision depend on its cause and pattern. Prisms or further treatment may still be needed in some cases.
You must not drive while you have double vision or if your vision does not meet DVLA standards. Individual advice will be given after assessment and surgery.
Risks include under- or over-correction, persistent or new double vision, infection, scarring, need for further surgery and rare serious complications. These are discussed during consent.
Discuss whether squint surgery is appropriate for you
Self-referrals, professional referrals and insured patients are welcome.