CORRECTIVE MUSCLE SURGERY

At Florida Eye Specialists & Cataract Institute, we perform a wide number of corrective surgical procedures to correct vision problems such as Strabismus and Nystagmus, after non-surgical procedures have been explored. For corrective muscle surgery, our highly-trained and skilled eye surgeons use the latest techniques and technologies.

Strabismus, commonly known cross-eyed or wall-eyed, is when both eyes can’t align simultaneously under normal conditions. One or both of the eyes may turn in, out, up or down. It is estimated that as many as 5 percent of all children have some type or degree of strabismus, which does not go away on its own. Strabismus in adults is also treatable.

Nystagmus is another correctable vision condition in which the eyes make involuntary and repetitive movements. Since both eyes are unable to hold steady on objects, visual acuity and depth perception are reduced.

When operating correctly, the eye muscles control proper vision alignment. But certain vision conditions need corrective muscle surgery.

Since Strabismus and other misalignment issues of the eyes often begin early in childhood, surgery is typically recommended for children. If left untreated, many people with vision alignment problems will begin to experience double vision or lose their normal binocular vision (the way that the brain incorporates the two slightly varied images it receives from the eyes to create the one three-dimensional image that we see of our surroundings).

However, if the condition is not treated surgically during childhood or it develops in adulthood due to eye injury or another cause, it can still be successfully treated through corrective muscle surgery.

Prior to the surgery, your doctor examines and measures parts of the eye to determine exactly which muscles are affected and how they need to be altered.

During surgery, muscles causing misalignment are reattached in better positions, then held in place with very small sutures. Sometimes the surgeon moves the muscle so that it can stretch and relax. Other times, a muscle requires tightening, which involves shortening the length of the muscle as it is moved.

Most surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis under general or local anesthesia, taking about 90 minutes to perform. Most patients return to work and all normal activities within one week. A small percentage of patients require a second round of surgery several months after the first.

The eye surgeons at Florida Eye Specialists & Cataract Institute are highly experienced in all types of conditions involving vision alignment, as well as their treatment. They can advise you on all of your available options, including corrective muscle surgery.