Squint Eye Treatment in Kolkata

Squint eye treatment in Kolkata, for children and adults

A squint is when the eyes don't point in the same direction: one turns in, out, up or down, all the time or only now and then. In children it needs early attention because it can cause a lazy eye. In adults it can be corrected at any age.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ananyabrata Das, MBBS, DO
Updated 22 October 2026

It isn't lucky, and it won't go away on its own

In many Bengali homes a child's squint is called লক্ষ্মী ট্যারা, lucky. It is said kindly, but it delays treatment. Children do not grow out of a true squint, and the brain of a young child can learn to switch off the turning eye. That eye then becomes lazy, and if it isn't treated before about seven or eight years of age, the loss can be permanent.

Types

Esotropia: the eye turns in. Often linked to long-sightedness in young children.
Exotropia: the eye turns out, often more when tired, ill or looking far away.
Vertical squint: one eye sits higher. Sometimes with a head tilt.
Intermittent squint: comes and goes. Still worth checking.
Pseudo-squint: a wide nose bridge in babies can make eyes look crossed when they aren't. An exam tells the difference.

Treatment

Glasses: correcting long-sight alone straightens some inward squints completely.
Patching or atropine drops: covering or blurring the good eye for a few hours a day forces the lazy eye to work.
Orthoptic exercises: useful for convergence problems and some intermittent squints.
Surgery: the eye muscles are tightened or loosened to realign the eyes. The eye is not taken out. It is usually a day-care operation.

Squint in adults

Adults come in for two reasons: a squint they've had since childhood and are self-conscious about, or a new squint with double vision. A new squint can be a sign of nerve, thyroid or diabetic problems and should be checked promptly. Surgery in adults improves appearance and often eye contact, confidence and side vision. It is never too late.

Questions

At what age should a squint be treated?

As soon as it's noticed. Treatment for lazy eye works best before age seven or eight. A squint in a baby beyond four to six months old should be examined.

Is squint surgery safe?

It is a common, generally safe operation. Some people need a second adjustment later. Serious complications are rare.

Can exercises cure a squint?

Only certain types, such as convergence insufficiency. Most constant squints need glasses, patching or surgery.