Squint, also called strabismus, is where the eyes point in different directions
A squint, also known as strabismus, is a condition where the eyes do not align properly and point in different directions. While many people associate squints with childhood, the condition can affect adults too. In some cases, a squint has been present since childhood. In others, it develops later in life due to muscle imbalance, nerve problems or an underlying medical condition.
If you are living with an adult squint, you may experience double vision, difficulty focusing, eye strain or reduced depth perception. Some people are primarily concerned about the appearance of their eyes, which can affect confidence and social interactions. Whatever your reason for seeking help, specialist assessment can provide clarity and reassurance.
At Fairfield Independent Hospital, we offer fast access to private adult squint treatment in St Helens, delivered by experienced consultant ophthalmologists. Your care is personalised, with a detailed evaluation and clear explanation of the treatment options available to you.
Choosing private treatment allows you to access prompt appointments and continuity of care in a calm and supportive hospital environment.
Treatment for an adult squint depends on the cause, severity and symptoms you are experiencing. During your consultation, your ophthalmologist will examine your eye movements, assess alignment and evaluate your vision. Additional tests may be carried out to determine whether there is an underlying neurological or muscular cause.
In some cases, non-surgical treatment may be appropriate. Prism glasses can sometimes help correct double vision by adjusting how light enters the eyes. Eye exercises may be recommended in selected cases to improve muscle coordination. If an underlying condition is identified, such as thyroid eye disease or a nerve palsy, this will be addressed as part of your overall care plan.
However, when the misalignment is significant or long-standing, surgery may be recommended to reposition the eye muscles and improve alignment. The aim is either to correct double vision, improve eye position for functional reasons or enhance appearance and confidence.
Your consultant will explain all suitable options clearly and discuss the likely outcomes, allowing you to make an informed decision.
The cost of private squint surgery depends on the complexity of your condition and the type of procedure required.
Before proceeding, you will receive clear and transparent information about the full cost of your care. This typically includes the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist’s fee, hospital charges and follow-up appointments. We believe it is important that you understand all aspects of your treatment plan, including the financial considerations, before making a decision.
If you are self-funding, our team can discuss available payment options. If you have private medical insurance, we recommend contacting your insurer to confirm authorisation and level of cover. Our administrative staff are available to assist with any necessary documentation.
Squint surgery involves adjusting the muscles that control eye movement. Each eye has six muscles that work together to coordinate movement and alignment. If one or more of these muscles is too strong or too weak, the eye can drift out of position.
During surgery, the ophthalmic surgeon carefully repositions or adjusts the affected muscles. This may involve strengthening a weak muscle or weakening a strong one to restore balance. The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthetic, although in some cases local anaesthetic with sedation may be suitable.
The surgery does not involve removing the eye. Instead, it focuses on the muscles on the surface of the eyeball. Small incisions are made in the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye, allowing the surgeon to access and adjust the muscles.
Squint surgery is usually performed as a day-case procedure, meaning you can return home the same day. After surgery, your eyes may feel sore or gritty for a short period, and redness is common while healing takes place.
The goal of surgery is to improve alignment. In some cases, further adjustment or additional surgery may be required, particularly if the squint is complex or long-standing. Your consultant will discuss realistic expectations during your assessment.
Adjustable squint surgery is a specialised technique that allows fine-tuning of eye muscle positioning shortly after the operation.
With this approach, the surgeon leaves a small adjustment mechanism in place at the end of the procedure. Once you are awake and your eye alignment can be assessed, minor adjustments can be made to optimise the final position of the eye. This can improve accuracy, particularly in adults who have double vision or complex misalignment.
Not all patients are suitable for adjustable techniques, and your ophthalmologist will advise whether this option is appropriate for you.
The aim of adjustable squint surgery is to increase the likelihood of achieving optimal alignment and reducing the need for further procedures.
When you choose to go private with Fairfield Independent Hospital, you can expect:
Our hospital in St Helens provides convenient access for patients travelling from Liverpool, Manchester and surrounding areas. You will receive consultant-led care in a professional and welcoming setting, with modern facilities and experienced clinical teams.
From your initial consultation to your post-operative review, your care is carefully coordinated to ensure safety, comfort and continuity.
If you are experiencing double vision, eye misalignment or are concerned about the appearance of a squint, arranging a specialist consultation is the first step.
To book a consultation to discuss squint treatment with an ophthalmologist near you, give us a call and one of our friendly advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you.
Reception: 01744 739 311
Mon - Sun: 8am to 8pm
Free car parking
