Can anything be done for adults with misaligned eyes?
Yes. Recent treatment advances allow most adults with misaligned eyes to have surgical correction. Is eye straightening as an adult strictly cosmetic? No. Eye alignment surgery improves eye function in most adults and can lead to social and economic benefits. Does my insurance cover the expense of this surgery? Although eye muscle surgery is reconstructive (not cosmetic), one should check with the insurance carrier to determine their specific policy. Is eye muscle surgery risky for adults? No. However, every surgical procedure has some risks. For strabismus surgery, the most common risks are residual misalignment and double vision (usually temporary). Fortunately, the more serious risks of anesthetic complications, infection, bleeding, retinal detachment, and decreased vision are rare. Health risks vary with the general health of the individual. For those in poor health, surgery under local anesthesia (instead of general anesthesia) or botulinum toxin injection may be considered. How s