Pediatric Ophthalmology

What types of examinations do pediatric ophthalmologists provide?

Vision testing – It takes a particular skill to assess a child’s vision, particularly before the child is in school. Different methods have to be used at different ages. Measuring eye position in all patients who have misaligned eyes (strabismus).
Examining the eye for abnormal structures, parts of the eye that are not functioning, signs that diseases are affecting the eyes such as genetic conditions, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and injuries.
Examinations of uncooperative, very young children including premature babies.
Determine what type and strength glasses a child needs at any age, by measuring the focusing ability of the eye (retinoscopy) after drops have made the pupils larger.

Medical treatments
Amblyopia (undeveloped vision or the vision part of “lazy eye”) including glasses, patching, and dilating drops
Glasses prescriptions for simple lack of focus such as near-sightedness, astigmatism or farsightedness
Some fit contact lenses as well
Medical treatments
Infection such as conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers and the tissue around the eye (orbit)
Inflammation inside the eye (iritis) from arthritis conditions and injuries
Glaucoma, high pressure in the eye, is treated by some pediatric ophthalmologists
Eye muscle surgery for misaligned eyes in patients of any age
Blocked tear ducts
Cataract surgery in children
Repair of injuries of the eye
Some do laser surgery in premature babies, glaucoma surgery, or droopy eyelid surgery (ptosis). This varies with the interest, training, and experience of the pediatric ophthalmologist.