Paediatric ophthalmology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating eye conditions in children. Unlike adults, children’s eyes are still developing, which means they require a different approach when it comes to diagnosis, treatment, and care.

What are the most common children’s eye conditions?

• Lazy eye (amblyopia): One eye doesn’t develop proper vision; often treatable if caught early.
• Turned eye (strabismus): Eyes may turn in or turn out; can affect vision and depth perception.
• Refractive errors: short-sightedness, far-sightedness, and astigmatism. Often corrected with glasses.
• Progressive myopia (short-sightedness)
• Blocked tear ducts
• Congenital cataracts or eye abnormalities
• Eye injuries
• Infections and allergies

What can I expect during a paediatric eye exam?

We use age-appropriate tools and techniques to evaluate:

• Visual acuity and glasses prescription
• Eye alignment and tracking
• Eye structure and health (dilation eye drops will be instilled)
• Peripheral vision and depth perception

What are the treatment options?

Depending on your child’s condition, treatment may involve:

• Prescription glasses or contact lenses
• Eye patching or vision therapy
• Medicated eye drops or ointments
• Myopia control therapies (eye drops, myopia-control glasses, Ortho-K in collaboration with an optometrist)
• Surgical correction (for conditions like strabismus or congenital cataracts)