Overview
About Paediatric Ophthalmology
Common concerns include refractive error, amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (squint), blocked tear ducts, and childhood myopia progression.
Examinations are adapted to a child's age and may use pictures, games and specialised techniques that do not require reading.
Treatment is often non-surgical, using glasses, patching or eye drops, with surgery reserved for specific conditions such as some forms of squint.
Reasons to consult
Common symptoms & reasons for a visit
- An eye that turns in, out, up or down
- Squinting, head tilting or sitting very close to screens
- A family history of childhood eye conditions
- Concerns raised at a school or nursery vision screening
- A white or unusual reflection in the pupil in photographs (seek prompt assessment)
Diagnosis
How the condition is evaluated
- 01
Age-appropriate vision testing
Picture charts, matching games and preferential looking tests.
- 02
Orthoptic assessment
Evaluates eye alignment and how the eyes work together.
- 03
Cycloplegic refraction
Drops relax focusing to measure the true prescription.
Treatment
Available treatment approaches
Glasses
Correcting refractive error to support normal visual development.
Amblyopia therapy
Patching or atropine drops to strengthen a weaker eye.
Myopia management
Evidence-based options that may slow the progression of short-sightedness.
Squint surgery
Adjustment of eye muscles where non-surgical treatment is insufficient.
The right approach depends on an individual examination. This page does not provide a diagnosis or guarantee any outcome.
Your visit
What patients can generally expect
- Appointments can take longer than adult visits because dilating drops need time to work.
- Bring your child's glasses, any previous reports, and a favourite toy or snack.
- Consistent follow-up is important because a child's eyes change as they grow.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Many children have their eyes checked at newborn and early childhood screenings. A full examination is recommended sooner if you notice a squint, unusual reflection or vision concerns. Your paediatric ophthalmologist can advise on timing.
Specialists
Related specialists
SampleMD · Fellowship, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus
Paediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus
Dr. Sofia Reyes
Consultant Paediatric Ophthalmologist
MD, Fellowship, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus
11+ yrs experience
View profile
Medical review notice: This page contains general, informational content for a demonstration website. It must be reviewed and approved by qualified ophthalmologists before real-world publication.
