Pediatric Ophthalmology
Specialised eye care for infants, children and teens
Overview
Pediatric ophthalmology focuses on eye conditions in children, from newborns to teenagers. Early detection and treatment of childhood eye problems is critical, as many conditions — if untreated — can lead to permanent vision loss (amblyopia).
Children's eyes are still developing, making early diagnosis and treatment essential. Common conditions include amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (squint), refractive errors, and congenital eye disorders. Pediatric eye specialists are trained to examine and treat children of all ages.
Signs & Symptoms
- Squinting or closing one eye
- Head tilting or turning
- Sitting very close to the TV or screen
- Rubbing eyes frequently
- Crossed or misaligned eyes (squint)
- White or unusual pupil reflex in photos
- Drooping eyelid
- Complaints of blurry or double vision
Causes & Risk Factors
- Refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism)
- Amblyopia (lazy eye)
- Strabismus (squint/misaligned eyes)
- Congenital cataracts
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)
- Congenital glaucoma
- Genetic and inherited eye conditions
Treatment Options
Spectacles & Contact Lenses
Corrective lenses to treat refractive errors and support amblyopia treatment in children.
Patching Therapy (Occlusion)
Covering the stronger eye with a patch to force the weaker (amblyopic) eye to work harder and develop normal vision.
Strabismus Surgery
Surgical correction of misaligned eye muscles to straighten the eyes and improve binocular vision.
ROP Screening & Laser Treatment
Screening of premature infants for retinopathy of prematurity and laser treatment to prevent retinal detachment.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should a child have their first eye exam?
Children should have their first comprehensive eye exam at 6 months, again at 3 years, and before starting school. Annual exams are recommended thereafter.
Can lazy eye (amblyopia) be treated in older children?
Amblyopia is most effectively treated before age 7, but treatment can still be beneficial up to age 12 or even older in some cases.