Should I have Strabismus surgery

[Tinamation]

I have had a lazy eye from the time I was born; I had my first pair of glasses before I was 2 (my right eye was constantly turned inwards). I wore glasses until I was 14, when I felt that my eye was stong enough to try it without the glasses. It was a little tough at first, I had trouble watching TV for long periods of time and I had trouble controling it when I was really tired, but eventually it got to the point where it was only noticed after I had been reading for long periods or if I was drunk (hehe). I've always had 20/20 vision and never any issues with depth perception. I was always really good at sports and in school I had no trouble, so I dont think my brain is the issue.

I've been researching treatment and surgery and I keep seeing that this type of muscular surgery is generally only for 'cosmetic' purposes and wont correct my vision...but I think it's actually the cosmetic purposes that I'm after. I'm 26 now and I am tired of trying to constantly keep my eyes straight (although usually it comes easily) but when I"m tired or I've been doing some serious reading, it would be nice not to have to try so hard (I do get headaches from the strain).

I suppose my questions are; Am I too old for surgery? Am I likely to benefit from surgery? Since I've spent the last 12 years keeping my eyes straight without the help of prism lenses, is it safe to conclude that my vision is working correctly, but my muscles are not? Is there anything else I should try at this point or is this my last resort?

Thanks,
T

[Tinamation]

Hyperopia is farsighted correct? I dont think that's it. I dont have a problem seeing or focusing on objects near or far. The glasses kept my eyes straight for the most part and I can do it myself as well, but I'm tired of it...what happens is, if I relax my eyes, the right eye will turn in, regardless of what I'm looking at.

I will go see someone, I just didnt want to waste anyone's time if it was not an option.

Thanks!

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

You are not too old for surgery.  First you need to determine if your strabismus is caused by moderate hyperopia.  I assume glasses kept your eye straight.  If so LASIK surgery may be the answer.    If a muscle problem surgery can also correct it.

See an ophthalmologist.