Squint Surgery in Delhi

Squint surgery (strabismus surgery) involves repositioning the extraocular muscles — the six muscles that control eye movement — to correct the alignment of the eyes. It is one of the most commonly performed ophthalmic surgeries in the world. In experienced hands, it is extremely safe. Serious complications such as infection or vision loss are exceedingly rare — under 0.1%. Redness, temporary overcorrection, and mild discomfort are common and temporary. At Netram, Dr. Hardeep Singh has performed this procedure thousands of times, and patient outcomes consistently reflect this experience.

The earlier, the better — within reason. For infantile esotropia (present before 6 months), surgery before 18–24 months of age gives the best chance of developing binocular vision. For other types, the guiding principle is: surgery during the critical period of visual development (before age 7–8 years) gives the visual system the best chance post-operatively. That said, children and even adults of any age benefit from surgical alignment — the goals are simply different. In older children and adults, the aim is alignment, elimination of diplopia, and improved quality of life rather than binocular vision development.

Glasses correct the refractive error (long-sightedness, short-sightedness, or astigmatism) that may be causing or contributing to the squint — surgery corrects the alignment. These are two different things. If your child's squint is fully or partially accommodative (driven by the focusing effort of hyperopia), glasses are essential both before and after surgery. Removing the glasses after successful surgery may cause the squint to return. Dr. Hardeep Singh will discuss your child's specific situation at the consultation.

No surgery guarantees perfect alignment in a single procedure. The success rate for acceptable alignment is over 85–90% after a single procedure at experienced centres. Some patients — particularly those with large angles, paralytic squint, or previous failed surgery — may require a second procedure to fine-tune alignment. This is not a failure; it is a recognised part of strabismus management and is discussed honestly before your surgery at Netram. The adjustable suture technique, where appropriate, reduces the need for re-operation significantly.

Squint surgery itself is performed under anaesthesia — children are asleep under GA, and adults are comfortable under local anaesthesia. After surgery, most patients describe a mild aching or gritty sensation for 1–3 days — similar to having sand in the eye. This is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief and antibiotic-steroid drops. The eye will be red for 1–3 weeks as the conjunctival incision heals. This is expected and not a cause for concern.

Standard recession-resection surgery is priced at ₹30,000 per eye. Adjustable suture surgery is ₹35,000 per eye, given the additional precision and post-operative adjustment session involved. Paediatric squint surgery under general anaesthesia is ₹30,000 per eye plus anaesthesia charges — consult our team for a complete package estimate. Squint surgery is covered under most health insurance policies in India. Our team assists with pre-authorisation and cashless claims.

Most children are back to their normal routine — including school — within 3–5 days. Adults typically return to work within a week. The eye will be red and slightly uncomfortable for 1–3 weeks as the conjunctiva heals. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops are used for 4–6 weeks. Avoid swimming, contact sports, and eye rubbing for 2–3 weeks. Final alignment assessment is done at 6–8 weeks — the muscle takes time to settle into its new position, and alignment may appear to fluctuate before stabilising.

Absolutely — and this is one of the most important messages in squint care. Adults with squint that has been present since childhood — who were told "it's too late" or "it's only cosmetic" — can achieve excellent alignment outcomes from surgery at any age. The benefits are very real: restored eye contact and social confidence, elimination of the psychological burden of a visible squint, and — in cases where some binocular potential remains — genuine improvement in depth perception. At Netram, we have operated on patients in their 40s, 50s, and 60s with excellent outcomes.

Yes — squint surgery (strabismus correction) is covered under most health insurance policies and government schemes in India, including CGHS, ECHS, and most TPA-empanelled policies. Paediatric squint surgery under general anaesthesia is typically fully covered. At Netram, we are empanelled with major insurance providers and assist patients with pre-authorisation, cashless claims, and reimbursement documentation. Contact our front desk before your appointment to confirm your specific coverage.