The short answer
A squint, where the eyes point in different directions, should be checked by an eye doctor as soon as you notice it, because it can lead to a lazy eye that stops developing proper sight. Many squints are treated first with glasses or patching. Surgery on the eye muscles is a day case under general anaesthetic, and it is often done to straighten the eyes once sight has been helped as much as possible.
See eye doctors in KadunaMedically 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 it should not wait
A child's sight is still developing. If one eye turns, the brain can start to ignore it, and that eye becomes lazy. Treatment for a lazy eye works best while the child is young. A squint is not something most children grow out of, and it is not caused by anything the parents did. Babies in the first few months can have eyes that wander now and then; a squint that is still there after that, or that is constant at any age, needs checking.
Treatment before surgery
The eye doctor examines both eyes, often with drops, and may start with:
- Glasses, which correct long sight and can straighten some squints on their own
- A patch over the stronger eye for part of the day, to make the lazy eye work
- Eye drops that blur the stronger eye, as an alternative to a patch
Squint surgery
The operation adjusts the muscles on the outside of the eye. The eye is not taken out. Your child is asleep under general anaesthetic, and most children go home the same day. The eye will be red and sore for a few days, and drops are used afterwards. Surgery straightens the eyes; glasses or patching may still be needed for the sight itself.
In many families the decision is made together with grandparents or the child's father, and that is reasonable. A video consultation lets everyone who will decide hear the doctor's explanation and ask questions, wherever they are.
Where to be seen in Kaduna on Mezo
Request an eye appointment in Kaduna through Mezo. The care team arranges it with a consultant ophthalmologist and confirms where and when, or you can see an eye doctor by video first.
Common questions
Will my child need more than one operation?
Sometimes. Some squints need a further operation to fine tune the result. The surgeon will explain the chance of this for your child.
Is it safe for a young child to have a general anaesthetic?
General anaesthetic in children is given by an anaesthetist who checks your child beforehand. Ask them about fasting times and any worries. Most children are awake and drinking within hours.
Can adults have squint surgery too?
Yes. Squint surgery is also done in adults, to improve double vision or the appearance of the eyes. It does not usually improve the sight in a lazy eye in adulthood.
Does my HMO cover it?
If you have an HMO, eligible plans can cover eye care on Mezo, and the Mezo desk files the prior authorisation with your HMO for you.
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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.