Lazy Eye (Amblyopia)

It is a condition characterized by reduced visual acuity in one or both eyes.

In Which Conditions Is Lazy Eye Most Commonly Seen?

• Misaligned eyes (strabismus)
• A large difference in eyeglass prescription between the two eyes
• Severe drooping of the eyelid
• Congenital cataract

Because strabismus and a drooping eyelid are easily noticed from the outside, families take the child to the doctor early, allowing an early diagnosis. However, a difference in eyeglass prescription between the two eyes cannot be detected by outward observation but only by examination; therefore, in addition to newborn examinations, we recommend routine eye examinations for all children at 6 months, 1 year, 3 years and 6 years of age.

Can Lazy Eye Be Treated? How?

The critical age up to which lazy eye can be treated is 8–9 years. The condition causing the amblyopia is identified and the problem is corrected. In the next stage, “patching of the healthy eye” is applied according to the patient’s age and the degree of amblyopia. In children past the critical age and in adults, neurovision therapy is used. In this computer-based treatment approach, the doctor explains the method to the patient and the treatment is carried out at home.

What Happens When Lazy Eye Is Left Untreated?

Serious problems may occur not only in visual acuity but also in 3D (stereoscopic) vision. For this reason, we should have our children examined regularly in order to prevent lazy eye, a problem that can be corrected when diagnosed early.