About Adult Strabismus Institute | Ophthalmology & Strabismus Specialist located in Plano, TX

What is strabismus?

Strabismus is a condition where the eyes are not aligned and point in different directions. One eye may look straight ahead while the other turns inward, outward, upward, or downward. Adults may experience strabismus due to childhood misalignment, neurological conditions, muscle changes, trauma, or medical disorders.

Can adults develop strabismus later in life?

Yes. Many adults develop strabismus due to:

Neurological issues 

Thyroid eye disease 

Cranial nerve palsies 

Trauma or head injury 

Stroke 

Age-related changes in eye muscles 

Decompensation of childhood strabismus 

Adult-onset strabismus is common and treatable.

Is double vision the same as strabismus?

Not always. While misaligned eyes are a common cause of double vision, other eye conditions can also create double images. Dr. Dao performs a detailed evaluation to determine the exact cause.

What is strabismus?

Do I need to see a specialist for strabismus?

Yes. Adult strabismus is a highly specialized area within ophthalmology. A fellowship-trained strabismologist like Dr. Dao has advanced training in diagnosing and treating complex alignment disorders in adults.

How is adult strabismus treated?

Treatment is customized and may include:

Prism glasses 

Orthoptic (eye alignment) exercises 

Medical treatment for underlying conditions 

Eye muscle surgery 

Many patients benefit from a combination of approaches.

Will surgery fix my strabismus permanently?

Many patients achieve long-lasting improvement with a single surgery. Some complex or longstanding cases may require more than one procedure over time. Dr. Dao will discuss your specific alignment pattern and expected outcomes during your consultation.

Is strabismus surgery painful?

Most adults experience mild discomfort, not significant pain. Temporary redness, irritation, or a scratchy sensation is common for a few days. Dr. Dao provides detailed postoperative guidance to ensure a smooth recovery.

How long is recovery after strabismus surgery?

Most patients return to normal activities within a 1 week. Redness may last a few weeks. Vision typically stabilizes as the eyes heal and adjust to their new alignment.

What are prism glasses?

Prism glasses bend light so that images align properly between the eyes. They are often used to treat double vision and can be temporary or long-term, depending on the underlying condition.

Do eye exercises help with strabismus?

Eye exercises, or orthoptic therapy, can help certain types of misalignment—especially small-angle deviations and convergence insufficiency. They are not effective for all types of strabismus. Dr. Dao will determine whether exercises are appropriate for your situation.

What happens during a strabismus evaluation?

A comprehensive evaluation may include:

Visual acuity testing 

Eye alignment measurements 

Eye movement analysis 

Prism testing 

Detailed history of symptoms and prior treatments 

Dr. Dao uses this information to develop an individualized plan.

Is strabismus covered by insurance?

Strabismus and double vision are medical conditions, not routine vision issues. Most medical insurance plans cover:

Office evaluations 

Diagnostic testing 

Strabismus surgery  

Coverage varies by plan; our office can help verify your benefits.

Can adults benefit cosmetically from strabismus surgery?

Yes. Improved eye alignment often enhances appearance and confidence. Even when cosmetic concerns are present, surgery may still be considered medically necessary if double vision or functional issues exist.

When is double vision an emergency?

Seek immediate medical attention if double vision begins suddenly—especially if accompanied by:

Drooping eyelid 

Severe headache 

Difficulty speaking 

Weakness or imbalance 

These signs may indicate a neurological emergency such as a stroke.

Can strabismus return after treatment?

Sometimes. Factors such as aging, neurological conditions, or muscle changes can affect long-term alignment. Most patients experience stable, lasting improvement, and additional treatment options remain available if needed.

If you have questions not listed here, please contact the Adult Strabismus Institute. We're here to help you understand your condition and explore the treatment options that best fit your needs.

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Ophthalmology & Strabismus Specialist located in Plano, TX