Strabismus/Misaligned Eyes

Strabismus can lead to double vision, reduced depth perception, and other challenges that interfere with daily life. At the Adult Strabismus Institute in Plano, Texas, patients receive personalized, effective treatment designed specifically for adults. Under the care of seasoned ophthalmologist Lori Dao, MD, who brings years of expertise in advanced strabismus management and corrective surgery, you can achieve clearer, more comfortable vision.
Call the office or request an appointment online today.

Strabismus Q & A

What is strabismus?

Strabismus, also known as misaligned eyes, is a condition in which the eyes do not align and point in different directions. While it can begin in childhood, strabismus can onset in adulthood as well. In strabismus, one eye focuses straight ahead while the other eye may drift inward, outward, upward, or downward.  Sometimes these are subtle misalignments, but enough to cause blurred or double vision.

Common types of strabismus include:

• Esotropia: inward-turning eye

• Exotropia: outward-turning eye

• Hypertropia: upward-turning eye

• Hypotropia: downward-turning eye

• Paralytic strabismus: misalignment caused by limited eye muscle movement

Many additional subtypes fall within these categories. Symptoms can be constant or intermittent, and the affected eye may switch between sides.

When the eyes point in different directions, the brain receives two conflicting images. To reduce visual confusion, the brain may begin suppressing (ignoring) the image from one eye, which can weaken its function over time. Without treatment, this can lead to long-term vision problems.

What are the symptoms of strabismus?

Strabismus symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of misalignment. They may include:

• Double vision

• Eyes that do not move together

• Squinting or closing one eye

• Poor depth perception

• Head tilt/Head turn to compensate for misalignment

• Blurry vision

• Eye strain or fatigue

• Decreased peripheral vision

At the Adult Strabismus Institute, Dr. Dao provides expert diagnostic evaluation and develops individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.

What causes strabismus?

Strabismus typically results from problems with the eye muscles or the nerves that control them. In adults, additional causes may include:

• Thyroid Eye Disease

• Divergence Insufficiency

• Convergence Insufficiency

• Stroke or neurological conditions

• Eye or head injuries

• Genetic predisposition

A thorough examination helps determine the underlying cause and guides treatment.

What is the most effective treatment for strabismus?

Treatment aims to improve eye alignment, restore binocular vision, and reduce symptoms such as double vision. The best approach depends on the type of strabismus and its impact on daily life. Options include:

Refractive correction

If you have untreated refractive errors such as nearsightedness or astigmatism, glasses or contact lenses may reduce eye strain and improve alignment.

Prism lenses

Prism lenses adjust the way light enters the eye, helping the eyes work together more comfortably and reducing double vision.

Eye muscle surgery

Dr. Dao performs advanced eye muscle surgery to reposition or adjust the muscles that control eye movement. The eyeball remains safely within its socket during the procedure.
Surgery can significantly improve alignment, though some patients may still benefit from glasses or prism lenses afterward for optimal vision.

Additional therapies

In some cases, temporary prisms or eye exercises may complement other treatments. Dr. Dao will design a personalized treatment plan to achieve the best possible outcome.

For expert evaluation and treatment of adult strabismus, call the Adult Strabismus Institute or request an appointment online today.