A squint, or strabismus, is when the eyes do not point in the same direction. One eye may turn in, out, up or down, all the time or only sometimes. Many families hear well-meaning advice that delays treatment. Here are the most common myths.
Myth 1: “Children grow out of a squint”
Fact: A true squint does not go away by itself. Some babies have a wide, flat nasal bridge that makes the eyes look crossed when they are actually straight. This is called pseudo-squint, and an eye doctor can tell the difference in minutes.
Myth 2: “A squint is lucky” or “only cosmetic”
Fact: A squint can affect how the brain uses the eyes. The brain may start to ignore the turned eye, leading to lazy eye (amblyopia) and poor depth perception. It can also be the first sign of a problem inside the eye, which is why every squint needs a full check.
Myth 3: “Surgery is the only treatment”
Fact: Many children need only glasses. A common type of inward-turning squint is caused by long sight, and the right glasses straighten the eyes. Others need patching for lazy eye, and some need surgery.
Myth 4: “Squint surgery means taking the eye out”
Fact: The eye is never removed. The surgeon adjusts the small muscles on the outer surface of the eye that control its position. Most children go home the same day.
Myth 5: “It is too late to treat a squint in adults”
Fact: Squint surgery can align the eyes at any age, improving appearance and sometimes relieving double vision. Treating lazy eye, however, works best in early childhood, which is why early checks matter.
Myth 6: “If my child’s vision seems fine, we can wait”
Fact: Children rarely complain, because they do not know what normal vision looks like. A squint that comes and goes, especially when tired or ill, still needs assessment.
When to book a check
- An eye that turns at any age after about four months
- Head tilting or closing one eye in bright light
- A white reflection in the pupil in photos. See a doctor promptly.
Learn about children’s eye care and squint treatment, or read our guide to lazy eye.
Frequently asked questions
At what age can a squint be treated?
Treatment can start in infancy. Glasses and patching work best when started early, and surgery can be done at any age when needed.
Will my child need glasses after squint surgery?
Many children still need glasses for their focusing error. Surgery straightens the eyes but does not change the glasses power.
Sources
This article is for general information and does not replace an examination by an eye doctor. If you have symptoms, please book a consultation.