The short answer
It is not too late. Adults with a squint, including one present since childhood, can have surgery on the eye muscles to straighten the eyes, which can improve appearance, confidence, and sometimes side vision and double vision. It does not usually improve the sight of an eye that has been lazy since childhood. A squint or double vision that appears suddenly in an adult is different and needs medical assessment first.
Ask about squint surgeryMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Why adults have squint surgery
- A childhood squint that was never treated, or returned
- Double vision from a squint that came on later
- Strain, eye fatigue or a head tilt to keep the eyes aligned
- The way it looks, which is a legitimate reason and affects work and social life for many people
A new squint is a different matter
A squint or double vision that appears suddenly can be caused by a nerve problem, thyroid eye disease, diabetes affecting a nerve, a stroke or, rarely, something pressing on a nerve. Go to an emergency department the same day if it comes with headache, droopy eyelid, weakness or slurred speech. Surgery is only considered once the cause is known and the squint has been stable.
What the operation involves
The surgeon moves, tightens or loosens one or more of the muscles on the outside of the eye. The eye is not taken out. In adults it is often done under general anaesthetic, sometimes local. Some surgeons use adjustable stitches, fine-tuned on the same or next day while you are awake, to improve the alignment.
Risks to weigh
- Under or over correction, sometimes needing a further operation
- Double vision afterwards, usually temporary
- Redness of the eye for some weeks
- Infection or, rarely, damage to the eye
What it costs on Mezo
One fixed price, paid online.
Common questions
Will squint surgery improve my eyesight?
It straightens the eyes. It does not usually improve the sight of a long-standing lazy eye, and glasses may still be needed.
Will the squint come back?
Eyes can drift again over the years. Some people need more than one operation over their lifetime.
Are there alternatives to surgery?
Prism glasses can help some kinds of double vision, and botulinum toxin injections are used for some squints.
What does squint surgery cost on Mezo?
It depends on how many muscles need operating on. The written quote follows the assessment.
The procedures
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Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Squint. NHS. Patient information.
- What is strabismus?. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Patient information.
Links last checked 23 October 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Where your centre's instructions differ from this guide, follow theirs.