Overview
Correcting a squint in adults, also known as adult strabismus surgery, is a procedure designed to realign the eyes so that they work together properly. A squint occurs when the eyes do not look in the same direction, leading to double vision, eye strain, and impaired depth perception.
In South Korea, adult strabismus correction is performed in advanced ophthalmology centers by experienced eye surgeons. The procedure uses precise surgical techniques, modern anesthesia, and meticulous post-operative care to achieve functional and cosmetic improvement. Korean hospitals provide comprehensive evaluations, imaging, and rehabilitation programs, ensuring optimal visual outcomes and patient satisfaction.
What is Correcting a Squint in Adults?
Adult squint correction is a surgical procedure that repositions the eye muscles to correct misalignment.
Key points:
- The surgery targets the extraocular muscles that control eye movement.
- The goal is to align the eyes for better vision and appearance.
- Adults may undergo surgery to resolve double vision, improve eye coordination, or for cosmetic reasons.
- It can involve weakening, strengthening, or repositioning muscles depending on the type and severity of the squint.
Indications for surgery:
- Persistent strabismus from childhood
- Diplopia (double vision) due to acquired squint
- Cosmetic concerns affecting confidence and social interactions
- Eye strain or headaches caused by misalignment
What are the Benefits?
Squint correction in adults provides functional and psychological benefits:
✔ Restores proper eye alignment and coordination.
✔ Reduces or eliminates double vision (diplopia).
✔ Improves depth perception and visual function.
✔ Enhances appearance and self-confidence.
✔ Minimally invasive, with rapid recovery when performed in expert centers.
Procedure Details
1) How should I prepare for Adult Squint Surgery?
- Medical assessment: Comprehensive eye exam, vision testing, and imaging of eye muscles.
- Medication review: Discuss blood thinners or other systemic medications.
- Preoperative counseling: Detailed explanation of procedure, expected outcomes, and possible risks.
- Arrange support: Assistance may be needed for transportation post-surgery.
- Anesthesia preparation: Local or general anesthesia is chosen based on patient preference and complexity.
South Korean ophthalmology centers provide personalized preparation plans, including eye exercises, counseling, and anesthesia guidance.
2) What happens during Adult Squint Surgery?
- The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia.
- A small incision is made on the eye’s surface (conjunctiva) to access the muscles.
- Eye muscles are strengthened, weakened, or repositioned to align the eyes.
- Absorbable or fine sutures are used, often not requiring removal.
- Surgery typically lasts 30–90 minutes depending on complexity and number of muscles involved.
South Korean eye surgeons emphasize microsurgical precision, minimal tissue trauma, and optimal cosmetic and functional outcomes.
3) What happens after Adult Squint Surgery?
- Mild swelling, redness, or discomfort may occur for a few days.
- Eye drops are prescribed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
- Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting or rubbing the eyes for several weeks.
- Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor alignment, healing, and visual function.
- Most patients see noticeable improvement in alignment and vision within 4–6 weeks.
Risks / Benefits
Potential Risks:
- ➤ Infection or bleeding
- ➤ Temporary double vision or eye fatigue
- ➤ Undercorrection or overcorrection requiring repeat surgery
- ➤ Scar tissue formation affecting muscle movement
- ➤ Rare anesthesia-related complications
Major Benefits:
- ✔ Restored eye alignment and improved binocular vision
- ✔ Reduced double vision and eye strain
- ✔ Enhanced cosmetic appearance and confidence
- ✔ Minimally invasive with rapid recovery
- ✔ High success rates in South Korea’s ophthalmology centers
Recovery and Outlook
- Immediate post-op: Mild discomfort, swelling, and redness; pain managed with medications.
- First weeks: Gradual improvement in alignment and vision; avoid strenuous activity.
- 4–6 weeks: Most adults experience significant improvement in eye coordination and appearance.
- Long-term outlook: With proper follow-up, adult squint surgery provides lasting alignment, improved vision, and high patient satisfaction.
Korean hospitals provide structured post-operative care, vision therapy, and long-term monitoring for optimal outcomes.
When To Call the Doctor
Contact your ophthalmologist if you notice:
- ➤ Severe pain or sudden vision changes
- ➤ Persistent double vision beyond expected recovery
- ➤ Excessive swelling, redness, or discharge
- ➤ Signs of infection or unusual bleeding
- ➤ Misalignment that seems to worsen
Best Korea Option / Process
South Korea offers world-class adult squint correction services due to:
- Experienced ophthalmologists specializing in strabismus surgery
- Advanced microsurgical instruments and imaging
- Minimally invasive techniques with rapid recovery
- Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, including vision therapy
- International patient support, including translators, accommodation, and scheduling
- Affordable costs with high-quality outcomes
Top hospitals for adult squint surgery in Korea:
- Samsung Medical Center
- Asan Medical Center, Seoul
- Seoul National University Hospital
- Severance Hospital (Yonsei University Health System)
