Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Surgery

There are three basic elements of pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus. First, there is the guidance of children to optimize the stages of visual development. Second is the treatment of various eye muscle imbalances. Finally is the treatment of tear duct developmental anomalies.

A child's eye exam

Pediatric Ophthalmology | Strabismus Surgery | Manhasset The visual system of children differ greatly from that of adults because they are constantly developing. The period of most rapid and critical development occurs soon after birth and extends until approximately eight to nine years of age. During this time children are highly vulnerable to the development of Amblyopia. Amblyopia is a disorder in which the visual connection between the eye and brain does not mature correctly. The treatment of Amblyopia is simple. It involves the use of glasses, eye drops and or glasses. If treated too late, Amblyopia may result in permanent visual impairment.

Should every child undergo an eye exam? Most insurances do not cover for comprehensive eye exams without a reason. However, if a child is suspected of having vision problems as detected at school eye exams, the pediatrician’s exam, or by his or her parents, he or she should be examined by an experience pediatric ophthalmologist.

Strabismus (eye misalignments)

Strabismus Surgery Manhasset Eye misalignment are frequent misunderstood to be only a “cosmetic” problem. The reality is that eye misalignments interfere with depth perception, peripheral vision and at worst visual development, leading to sometimes permanent visual deficits. A psychological study showed that people with eye misalignments have been described by others as being “crafty”, “not smart” or “strange”. Therefore, the treatment of strabismus often results in better vision and often improves one’s social relationships.

The treatment involves, glasses, eyedrops, patching and sometimes eye muscle surgery.

Infant Tear Duct Blockages

About 90 percent of newborns have some degree of tear duct blockage on one or both sides. Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of these quickly open by themselves, especially by age 1 year. As a result, some infants suffer from tearing, a crusty discharge in the morning and recurrent infections. Some of these infection may be severe enough to require hospitalizations. The usual procedure is tear duct probing at around 1 year of age.

If you are interested in learning more about our Pediatric Eye Care, call 516-627-5113 today to schedule an appointment.