Issue 34.16
Adult patients may ask themselves what they are doing visiting a doctor’s office where cartoons are playing on the television, Legos are stacked in tall towers, and children’s books are the predominant type of available literature. One pediatric specialist really does have something unique to offer his adult patients. As a pediatric ophthalmologist, Dr. Josh Schliesser, is also a strabismus specialist. Strabismus is the medical term for misaligned eyes. Although strabismus affects approximately three percent of children, the incidence of adult onset strabismus is estimated to be even higher.
Having misaligned eyes can result in disabling double vision, decreased self confidence, and it can also hinder social interactions. Dr. Schliesser takes care of many adult patients with strabismus. Surgical and non-surgical treatment options are available that can help improve a patient’s quality of life.
Initial evaluation usually involves determining the cause. Some patients have a history of childhood strabismus. In others, a serious medical condition could be the cause and must be investigated.
One potential non-surgical option for strabismus is prism glasses. Prisms can be very helpful to patients with double vision. However, prisms can be expensive and the amount of prism required can change over time, so the cost of glasses can become excessive. Surgical correction of strabismus is a very good alternative for many patients.
Surgical correction of strabismus is very successful at restoring normal eye alignment and eliminating double vision. Strabismus surgery is done as outpatient surgery in the Zion Eye Institute. There is minimal recovery and most patients notice improvement almost immediately. Strabismus surgery is normally covered by medical insurance.
If you have been dealing with double vision, misaligned eyes or if you would like to have a general eye exam, come see Dr. Josh Schliesser. He is a board certified ophthalmologist and strabismus specialist with Dixie Ophthalmic Specialists at the Zion Eye Institute. Currently we are accepting new patients of all ages, call us today to be seen at any one of our 4 locations (435) 656-2020.