For patients with strabismus (crossed eyes or walleyes), the eyes cannot focus on the same object, causing blurry vision or a double image. Strabismus surgery corrects their eye muscles to improve eye alignment, correct double vision, and vision clarity and is often performed during childhood. Country Hills Eye Center, an adult and children’s eye doctor in Ogden, UT has performed this surgery for countless patients, and today we have compiled a list of what to expect after strabismus surgery.
Immediately After Surgery
Eye muscle surgery is generally performed on children under general anesthesia, meaning the child is completely asleep, whereas for adults only a local anesthetic is needed, meaning the patient is awake. This makes the immediate recovery slightly different.
- The child will receive constant monitoring in a post-operative room until they are awake.
- Breathing tubes are removed, and soon the child is moved to another room where the family can join them, IVs can be removed, and clear liquids are offered.
- Adults administered local anesthetic will require less stringent monitoring in the immediate aftermath of surgery.
Visual Appearance
- Bruising will cause the eyes to appear blood red. This usually resolves in children after 7 to 10 days but can last up to 3 weeks.
- Any excess mucus the eyes produce for the next few days may be wiped away gently with a moist cloth, to prevent the eyelashes from sticking together.
- Once healing is complete, bluish discoloration or scarring may be visible on the surface of the eye. The surgeon will do their best to make the incision in a place normally covered by the eyelid, but this is not always possible.
Pain and Return to Regular Activities
Pain is usually treated with Tylenol or Motrin. Irritation on the surface of the eye generally resolves in 48 hours, while soreness when moving the eye lasts about one week. Children seem to experience less discomfort after surgery than adults. Generally, normal activity can be resumed just a few hours after surgery. A few things to remember are:
- Avoid potential irritants such as soap and shampoo for two to three days.
- Avoid submerging the head for several days.
- Some drive as early as one day after surgery, but this is based on individual confidence.
Contact Country Hills Eye Center to getting Started
If you, your child, or a loved one has strabismus, eye muscle surgery can greatly improve your vision and quality of life. Request an appointment and contact our office today to get started. Country Hills Eye Center provides patients with total eye care, from annual eye screenings to cosmetic treatment and surgery. Our team can’t wait to help you see with greater confidence and clarity.
