About Squint (Strabismus)

A squint, medically known as strabismus, is a condition where the eyes are misaligned and do not look in the same direction. One eye may turn inwards, outwards, upwards, or downwards while the other remains focused. This misalignment affects both children and adults, though its causes and implications may differ depending on age.

In children, a squint often develops due to an imbalance in the muscles controlling the eyes, leading to poor coordination between them. If left untreated, it can cause amblyopia, or “lazy eye,” where the brain begins to favour one eye, potentially impairing vision in the affected eye. Early detection, including glasses, eye patches, or surgery, is crucial for successful treatment.

In adults, strabismus can arise from trauma, neurological conditions, or illnesses like stroke or diabetes. It may cause double vision, headaches, or eye strain, affecting daily activities and quality of life. Treatment options include corrective lenses, vision therapy, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause.

Effective management of squint is vital for improving visual function and overall eye health in children and adults.

At Moorfields Eye Hospitals UAE, our highly qualified adult and paediatric squint surgeons have extensive experience diagnosing and treating all forms of squint. 

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Comprehensive Assessments

We offer a comprehensive range of eye care assessments, diagnostics, surgical and non-surgical treatment services. Assessment services: (evaluation examinations may differ depending on outcome of consultation) (expandable links below)

  • General Health Assessment
  • Optometry assessment
  • Orthoptic assessment
  • Consultation with Ophthalmology Consultant

Conditions & Treatment

Adult Squint
Adult Squint

About Adult Squint (Strabismus)

Adult squint is a misalignment of both eyes and effects about 4% of the adult population

What is the aim of surgery?

  • To improve the alignment of the eyes, to make the squint smaller in size.
  • In some patients, to reduce or try to eliminate double vision.
  • Occasionally to improve an abnormal position of the head.

How is the surgery done?

Squint surgery is a very common eye operation. It usually involves tightening or moving one or more of the outside eye muscles which move the eye. These muscles are attached quite close to the front of the eye under the conjunctiva, the clear surface layer. The eye is never taken out of the socket during surgery. Stitches are used to attach the muscles in their new positions. Squint surgery is nearly always a day case procedure so you should be in and out of hospital on the same day.

Adult Squint

About Adult Squint (Strabismus)

Adult squint is a misalignment of both eyes and effects about 4% of the adult population

What is the aim of surgery?

  • To improve the alignment of the eyes, to make the squint smaller in size.
  • In some patients, to reduce or try to eliminate double vision.
  • Occasionally to improve an abnormal position of the head.

How is the surgery done?

Squint surgery is a very common eye operation. It usually involves tightening or moving one or more of the outside eye muscles which move the eye. These muscles are attached quite close to the front of the eye under the conjunctiva, the clear surface layer. The eye is never taken out of the socket during surgery. Stitches are used to attach the muscles in their new positions. Squint surgery is nearly always a day case procedure so you should be in and out of hospital on the same day.

Paediatric Squint
Paediatric Squint

About Paediatric Squint (Strabismus)

Squint is a term used within ophthalmology for a misalignment between the two eyes. The medical term for this is ‘strabismus’. While one eye looks straight, a person can have one eye that turns inwards (esotropia), outwards (exotropia), upwards (hypertropia) or downwards (hypotropia). A child may be born with squint or it may be something that develops with age. Squints can appear suddenly or develop slowly, they can be constant or may only be present intermittently.

Paediatric Squint

About Paediatric Squint (Strabismus)

Squint is a term used within ophthalmology for a misalignment between the two eyes. The medical term for this is ‘strabismus’. While one eye looks straight, a person can have one eye that turns inwards (esotropia), outwards (exotropia), upwards (hypertropia) or downwards (hypotropia). A child may be born with squint or it may be something that develops with age. Squints can appear suddenly or develop slowly, they can be constant or may only be present intermittently.

Squint Specialists

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