All You Need to Know About Squint Surgery
Squint surgery is a permanent and effective solution for crossed eyes, not to be confused with “lazy eye.”
People often apply the term “lazy eye” to both strabismus and amblyopia. But this is a huge misconception. Lazy eye and squint are popular topics that are often misunderstood and can be confusing.
WHAT IS A SQUINT?
A squint, also called strabismus, is an eye condition where the eyes point in different directions. It is commonly known as crossed eyes, drifting eyes, or wandering eyes.
The main symptom is pretty obvious. It may be in one eye only or both eyes. One eye can turn out (divergent), in (convergent), up, or down. For example, exotropia is a type of strabismus in which one or both eyes turn outward. This is the opposite of crossed eyes, or esotropia.
Also, strabismus may be constant or happen from time to time (intermittent).
The exact cause of a squint is unknown. Squints are particularly common in young children (congenital), though. Sometimes they run in the family or are more frequent if you have long-sightedness – difficulty seeing nearby objects.
A squint can also be a symptom of a rare type of childhood eye cancer called retinoblastoma. However, you could develop it in adulthood due to a medical condition (acquired). Hence, it can occur at any age.

Written by Dr Osama Bahsas Zaky
Updated on October 26, 2021