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What Is Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)?

Name: Golden Triangle Eye Center
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Strabismus is a condition in which the eyes do not align properly and point in different directions — one eye may turn in, out, up, or down while the other looks straight ahead. It can be constant or intermittent, and affects about 4% of children.

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What Is Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)?

When to seek care

Any parent who notices that a child's eyes appear crossed or misaligned should seek an eye exam — comprehensive exam right away — do not wait for the next well-child visit. "Wait and see" is not appropriate for strabismus. Adults who develop sudden eye misalignment or double vision should seek prompt medical evaluation.

Symptoms of Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)

Eyes that are visibly misaligned or turn in different directions
double vision (diplopia) — more common in adults
one eye that wanders especially when tired or sick
head tilting or turning to compensate
squinting one eye in bright light
loss of depth perception.

Causes & Risk Factors

Strabismus occurs when the six muscles controlling eye movement do not coordinate properly. Causes include: neurological issues affecting the eye muscles; significant refractive errors (especially farsightedness in children); family history of strabismus; brain conditions; prematurity; Down syndrome; or it can develop after a stroke or head injury in adults.

Treatment Options

Overview
Glasses or contact lenses to correct any refractive error that may be causing the eye to turn; patching or atropine to treat any associated amblyopia; vision therapy to improve eye coordination; eye muscle surgery to adjust the balance of the eye muscles (often highly effective, may require more than one procedure). Treatment is individualized based on the type and angle of deviation.

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Insurance & Cost for Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)

Evaluation and non-surgical strabismus treatment — glasses, patching, and vision therapy — may be covered by medical or vision insurance depending on the diagnosis and plan. Strabismus surgery is typically covered by medical insurance when medically necessary. Typically covered: • Comprehensive evaluation for eye alignment disorders • Corrective glasses for accommodative esotropia • Strabismus surgery under medical insurance when indicated Often out-of-pocket: • Vision therapy — coverage varies by medical plan • Surgical copays and facility fees • Post-surgical glasses or prism lenses

Coverage varies by plan — we verify your benefits before treatment

Call before your visit and we will check your vision and medical benefits so there are no surprises.

Call (662) 327‑7271

Can strabismus fix itself?

Infant eyes may appear crossed in the first few weeks of life because eye muscles are still maturing. However, a true eye turn after 3‑4 months of age will not resolve on its own and requires treatment.

Will my child need surgery?

Not always. Surgery is one option, but many children improve with glasses and vision therapy alone, especially if the eye turn is caused by farsightedness. Your doctor will recommend the least invasive effective approach.

Does surgery permanently fix strabismus?

Surgery can greatly improve eye alignment, but it is not always a one-time fix. Some patients need more than one procedure, and ongoing vision therapy may be recommended after surgery to maintain alignment.

Is strabismus treatment covered by insurance?

Medical insurance typically covers strabismus surgery when medically necessary. Glasses, patching, and vision therapy coverage varies by plan. We verify benefits and discuss your options before starting treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye care provider with any questions about a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911.

Book an Evaluation for Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)

Any parent who notices that a child's eyes appear crossed or misaligned should seek an eye exam right away — do not wait for the next well-child visit. "Wait and see" is not appropriate for strabismus. Adults who develop sudden eye misalignment or double vision should seek prompt medical evaluation.

Call (662) 327‑7271

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Related resources from Golden Triangle Eye Center.

What Is Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)?

What Is Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)?

When to seek care

Symptoms of Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)

Eyes that are visibly misaligned or turn in different directions

double vision (diplopia) — more common in adults

one eye that wanders especially when tired or sick

head tilting or turning to compensate

squinting one eye in bright light

loss of depth perception.

Causes & Risk Factors

Treatment Options

Overview

Insurance & Cost for Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)

Coverage varies by plan — we verify your benefits before treatment

Frequently Asked Questions About Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)

Medical Disclaimer

Book an Evaluation for Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)

Explore More

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