What is Amblyopia?

Amblyopia is commonly referred to as lazy eye. It is a visual condition that is manifested by reduced vision, which is not correctable by wearing glasses or contact lenses. Amblyopia is often the result of long-term suppression of the eye’s signal from the brain. The treatment of strabismus and amblyopia are quite similar. While historically it was felt that nothing could be done about amblyopia after the age of seven, new research and clinical experience have shown that strabismus and amblyopia can be treated successfully at any age. The tradition of patching the “good eye” has fallen from favor as research demonstrates that constant patching can damage the binocular cells of the eye. Newer treatment methods utilize minimal patching combined with appropriate activities that stimulate both the monocular and binocular cells of the eye.