Before and after strabismus surgery

This page gives general information. The written instructions you receive before and after surgery always take priority.

Before surgery

• Strabismus surgery is performed on the muscles on the outer surface of the eye; the inside of the eye is not entered.
• Children have the operation under general anaesthesia. For adults, the type of anaesthesia is decided individually.
• The anaesthetic team will tell you how many hours to fast beforehand; please follow this exactly.
• Explain the operation to your child calmly, in words suited to their age. A favourite toy can come along.
• Tell us about any medicines and allergies.

After surgery

• Redness on the white of the eye is normal and usually fades gradually over a few weeks.
• Stinging, watering and mild pain are common in the first days; your doctor may recommend a painkiller.
• Use the eye drops as instructed and do not rub the eye.
• Avoid pools and the sea for as long as advised, usually about two weeks.
• Most children can go back to school within a few days.
• Adults may have temporary double vision at first; it usually settles as the brain adapts to the new eye position.
• Unless told otherwise, glasses or patching continue after surgery.

Follow-up visits

The position of the eyes can change during the first weeks. Follow-up visits are important to assess the result and, if needed, adjust glasses or patching.