Adult Eye Muscle Surgery Queens and Nassau County

Strabismus isn’t just a childhood condition—adult patients deserve second-to-none care from one of New York’s most experienced strabismus surgeons. At The Pediatric Eye Center, we’ve spent decades helping adult patients improve their eye alignment, reduce double vision, and regain confidence.

Why Do Adults Develop Eye Alignment Problems?

Many adult patients have had strabismus since childhood and either never had surgery or had it and experienced a recurrence later in life. Others develop strabismus in adulthood due to neurological events (like stroke), thyroid eye disease, trauma, or age-related eye muscle changes. Regardless of the cause, adult-onset strabismus can significantly impact quality of life.

Common Issues Experienced by Adults With Strabismus

Double vision (diplopia)
Difficulty with reading or focus
Loss of depth perception
Eye strain or fatigue
Social self-consciousness

Some adult patients also experience head tilts or turns in an effort to minimize symptoms, which can lead to neck strain or chronic discomfort over time.

Wendy's Story

Why Adults Trust The Pediatric Eye Center

While we're best known for caring for children, our reputation in adult strabismus care continues to grow, especially among patients who’ve been told they’re “too old” or “not a candidate” for surgery. Dr. Eric Lichtenstein brings the same surgical-grade expertise, thoughtful care, and ethical transparency to every adult patient he treats.

Over 25 years of surgical experience across all ages
Fellowship training in pediatric and adult strabismus
Precision expertise in complex, recurrent, and neurologic misalignments
A fully independent, physician-led model with no insurance restrictions
Personalized, honest guidance without pressure or overpromising
Continuity of care from the same trusted physician at every visit
Trusted by pediatricians and specialists for patients of all ages

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What Is Adult Strabismus Surgery?

Adult eye muscle surgery involves adjusting the muscles responsible for eye movement to restore better alignment. Unlike pediatric surgery—where visual development is the primary concern—adult surgery focuses on improving symptoms and functional outcomes, especially double vision and visual comfort.

“Dr. Eric did my strabismus surgery on my left eye recently, and it went so well. The whole process from start to finish was so smooth and effortless. Thank you! This was life-changing.”

Farzana Chowdhury

Dr. Lichtenstein’s Approach to Eye Muscle Surgery

Surgery is typically done under general anesthesia and is performed as an outpatient procedure. In many cases, both eyes are operated on—even if only one eye appears to be misaligned—because strabismus involves the relationship between both eyes. These are the key goals of surgery:

Realign the eyes to reduce or eliminate diplopia
Restore binocular vision or improve peripheral vision
Reduce abnormal head positioning

Understanding Nystagmus in Adults

Nystagmus is a condition where the eyes move rhythmically or involuntarily—often side-to-side, up and down, or in a circular motion. While not always correctable through surgery, certain forms of nystagmus improve when the patient holds their head in a specific position. In those cases, eye muscle surgery can help by enabling a more comfortable head posture or reducing the intensity of the movement.

Is Eye Muscle Surgery Right for You?

Surgery is not always the first step. Dr. Lichtenstein will perform a detailed evaluation, including eye movement testing, alignment measurements, and a discussion of your medical history. If surgery is recommended, you’ll receive a customized plan, tailored to your specific anatomy and visual goals.

FAQ Adult Eye Muscle Surgery

Is strabismus surgery safe for adults?

Yes. Risks are low, and outcomes are often excellent. Dr. Lichtenstein will review all risks, including infection, overcorrection, undercorrection, or temporary double vision.

Will I need more than one surgery?

Some adults may need a second procedure, particularly if the eye muscles have changed significantly over time. Many patients, however, achieve long-term results with a single operation.

How long is the recovery period?

Most patients return to non-strenuous activities within a few days. Full healing typically takes several weeks, though improvement in eye alignment is often visible right away.

Will insurance cover the surgery?

Many patients prefer to proceed outside insurance networks for faster scheduling, personalized care, and direct access to Dr. Lichtenstein. We’ll walk you through your options.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Dr. Lichtenstein treats adult strabismus with the same precision, empathy, and excellence that have defined his pediatric work for more than two decades. If you’re tired of dealing with double vision or misalignment—and ready to explore real solutions—you’re in the right place. Call (929) 588-8570 to schedule your consultation today.