Eye Care

Strabismus Surgery

Alignment surgery, discussed after a specialist review of eye movement and binocular vision.

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Procedure time
Usually 1–2 hours
Anaesthesia
Usually general anaesthesia
Time in Istanbul
Typically 5–7 days
Back to desk work
Often after about 1 week
Overview

About Strabismus Surgery

Strabismus is a misalignment of the eyes: one eye may turn in, out, up or down. Surgery adjusts the position or tension of the small muscles on the outside of the eye so that the eyes line up better. The eye is not removed from its socket during the operation.

The goals depend on the person. Surgery may improve alignment and appearance, reduce double vision or help the eyes work together. It does not correct the need for glasses, and in adults it may not restore full depth perception. Glasses, prisms or injections are sometimes tried first.

Suitability

Who it may be suitable for

  • A visible eye turn or double vision caused by misalignment
  • Measurements that have been stable over time
  • Non-surgical options considered or already tried
  • Fitness for anaesthesia

These are general points only. Whether a procedure is suitable for you is decided by the treating ophthalmologist after a full eye examination and detailed measurements in the clinic.

The process

How it works

  1. Records review

    You share your current glasses or contact lens prescription, any previous eye reports and your general medical history. The team confirms whether a full assessment is worthwhile.

  2. Full eye examination

    In Istanbul, the ophthalmologist examines both eyes and takes detailed measurements. Drops that widen the pupils may blur your vision for a few hours, so you should not drive afterwards.

  3. Surgery

    Under anaesthesia, the surgeon reaches the eye muscles through the thin membrane over the white of the eye and moves, tightens or loosens them. The stitches usually dissolve.

  4. Follow-up checks

    The eye is checked after the procedure, usually the next day, before you fly. Later checks are arranged with an eye doctor near home, with your reports in hand.

Recovery

What recovery usually looks like

  1. First days

    The eye is red, sore and scratchy, and vision may be blurry. Double vision can appear for a while as the brain adjusts.

  2. Weeks 1–2

    Use the prescribed drops. Avoid swimming, eye make-up and rubbing the eye. Most adults return to desk work within about a week.

  3. Weeks 4–8

    Redness fades and alignment settles. The surgeon assesses the result once healing is complete.

Timelines vary between people. Always follow the aftercare instructions from your treating clinic.

Good to know

Risks and considerations

  • The alignment can be under- or over-corrected, and some people need more than one operation.
  • Double vision can occur or persist after surgery, and is occasionally long-lasting.
  • Infection, scarring, an allergic reaction to stitches and, rarely, damage to the wall of the eye or a slipped muscle are possible.
  • Alignment can change again over the years.
  • General anaesthesia carries its own risks, which the anaesthetist discusses with you beforehand.
FAQ

Common questions

Is strabismus surgery only cosmetic?

No. It can also reduce double vision and, in some people, help the eyes work together. Whether that is possible in your case is assessed beforehand.

Will I need more than one operation?

Some people do. Eye alignment does not always respond exactly as planned, and a second procedure is sometimes needed.

Is it suitable for adults?

Yes. Strabismus surgery is performed in adults as well as children. The aims and expected benefits are discussed for your situation.

How long should I stay in Istanbul?

It depends on the procedure: most people plan for the assessment, the procedure day and at least one follow-up check before flying. Your coordinator confirms the schedule once the clinic has examined you.

How is the cost decided?

It depends on the procedure the ophthalmologist recommends after the examination, the technology or lens used and whether one or both eyes are treated. You receive a written quote before anything is booked, with no obligation to proceed.

Related treatments
Next step

Talk to a coordinator about Strabismus Surgery

Share your details and a coordinator will reply with clear next steps. There is no obligation to proceed.

This page is general information, not medical advice; a treating clinician confirms your plan after assessment. ELAVIA Global coordinates care; clinical evaluation and treatment are delivered by independent, licensed partner facilities and their specialists.