Thank you Indian Express for publishing views on this.
Squint is misalignment of eyes where one of the eyes is not is sync with the other eye. Its also known as cross eye. The incidence of this condition varies from 4-6% across the world. A lot of misinformation and stigma is attached with the notion of having cross eyes. Some of the common misconceptions are
(2) Squint surgery in adults is not effective & doing so decreases vision
(3) Squint surgery is “cosmetic” and does not improve binocular function
(4) There is a high risk associated with strabismus surgery
Almost all the above claims are unscientific and based on hearsay. The problem with this misinformation is such that even some of the healthcare workers also believe in these false claims or inherent thoughts. There is now lot of literature regarding the psychosocial impact of strabismus, as well as the negative occupational influence of this condition. Multiple adverse effect of cross eyes are present on an individual's self-image, school performance, and employment possibilities. Successful alignment of eye is associated with relief from visual confusion or diplopia, a high incidence of sensory binocular fusion, an expanded peripheral field, and improved psychosocial function. These issues are no longer a matter of debate. It is time for the question to shift to an examination of how an awareness and sensitivity can be created in the medical community, general public and insurance companies.
The first step is to truly alter our own thinking process. The idea of squint surgery being mainly a cosmetic correction has been fed since years. Subsequent information reveals that this concept is incorrect. All definitions of the word cosmetic that I was able to ascertain include the idea of beautifying or increasing or preserving beauty. Successful squint surgery has absolutely nothing to do with enhancing beauty. We must completely strike the word cosmetic from this lexicon.
The next step is to sensitize teachers, educationists, the society and importantly insurance companies at large that these patients have multiple benefits from correction of cross eyes (squint) which as mentioned above is not just cosmesis. It requires empathy and compassion on society’s part to understand this problem as a disability which needs attention and not a sign of good or bad luck.
Early surgical correction of misalignment will minimize the length of the disability and its associated disturbing psychosocial impact. As part of our expanding compassion, we should be aware that patients may require socialization rehabilitation, occupational counseling, and psychotherapy, in addition to surgical correction.
Reproduced from the Wellness issue of Indian Express
