Can Strabismus Be Treated Without Surgery? Explore Non-Surgical Options with Dr. Mohamed El-Khawaga

Strabismus is a common eye condition that affects both children and adults, where the eyes do not align properly and look in different directions. Treatment options vary based on age, type of strabismus, and its effect on vision. In this article, Dr. Mohamed El-Khawaga, Consultant in Ophthalmology and Pediatric Eye Disorders & Strabismus, explains the most effective non-surgical treatment methods and when surgery may be necessary.

What Is Strabismus?

Strabismus occurs when one or both eyes deviate from their normal position. The misalignment can be constant or intermittent and may turn the eye inward, outward, upward, or downward.

Can Strabismus Be Treated Without Surgery?

Dr. Mohamed El-Khawaga confirms that many cases of strabismus can be successfully managed without surgery, especially when diagnosed early. Non-surgical treatment options include:

1. Prescription Glasses

• Often used for refractive strabismus caused by vision problems like farsightedness.

• Helps align the eyes and reduce deviation, particularly in children.

2. Eye Muscle Exercises

• Also called vision therapy or orthoptic exercises.

• Effective for mild or intermittent strabismus, especially outward turning (exotropia).

3. Patching Therapy

• Used in children to strengthen the weaker eye.

• The stronger eye is covered for several hours daily to encourage use of the weaker eye.

4. Prism Lenses

• Prescribed in some cases of minor strabismus.

• Helps correct double vision and align the eyes by bending light appropriately.

5. Botox Injections

• Dr. Mohamed El-Khawaga notes that mild to moderate cases of strabismus can respond to Botox injections.

• Botox temporarily weakens overactive eye muscles, helping the eyes realign.

When Is Surgery Needed?

If non-surgical treatments are ineffective or the strabismus is severe, surgery might be recommended. Dr. Mohamed El-Khawaga carefully evaluates each case before deciding on surgical correction, which involves adjusting the muscles that control eye movement.

Conclusion

Strabismus can often be treated without surgery using glasses, exercises, patches, prisms, or Botox, depending on the cause and severity. Dr. Mohamed El-Khawaga, Consultant in Ophthalmology and Pediatric Eye Disorders & Strabismus, emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and consistent follow-up, especially in children, to achieve the best possible outcome.