Pediatric Ophthalmology  ​​​​​​

Ophthalmology is the medical specialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and surgery of disorders and diseases of the eye. Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus is a sub-specialty of ophthalmology that deals with eye conditions in children, and also with strabismus (misaligned eyes) in both children and adults. 

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathy (DO) who specializes in eye care, including medical, surgical, and optical care.

Services Offered:   

General Eye Examination: 

• Comprehensive visual testing to assess vision quality. 

• Examination of the eye's internal and external structures using tools like a slit lamp. 

• Pressure measurement to detect glaucoma. 

• Examination of the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels.

Examination of Children's Eye Disease: 

• Pediatric eye exams to monitor vision development and detect any abnormalities. 

• Examination for common childhood eye conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye), congenital cataracts, and congenital glaucoma. 

• Detecting and monitoring refractive errors in children like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

Treatment for Strabismus, Misaligned Eyes and Lazy Eye: 

• Strabismus: It is a condition in which the eyes do not align properly. One or both eyes may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward. 

• Treatment: Can include glasses, prisms, vision therapy, or eye muscle surgery. 

• Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): Reduced vision in one eye caused by abnormal visual development early in life. 

• Treatment: Can involve patching the stronger eye to encourage use of the weaker eye. Glasses may also be prescribed. 

• Double Vision (Diplopia): Seeing two images of a single object. 

• Treatment: May include glasses, prisms, or surgery.

A pediatric ophthalmologist is an ophthalmologist who has undergone additional training specifically to treat children's eye problems. They are equipped to examine non-verbal or non-cooperative children, and they have specialized knowledge of the conditions most common in children.

Pediatric ophthalmologists play a pivotal role in ensuring that children's eyes develop normally and that they achieve the best vision possible. Early detection and intervention of eye problems in children can often lead to better outcomes and can prevent long-term vision problems. The subspecialty also addresses strabismus in both children and adults, ensuring proper eye alignment for optimal vision and appearance. 

Ophthalmology services include comprehensive eye exams for adults and children, detecting conditions like glaucoma and retinal issues. Specialized pediatric care focuses on childhood eye diseases, strabismus, and amblyopia. Treatments include glasses, vision therapy, and surgical options when needed.