Amblyopia Treatment in an Adult

Amblyopia, also known as “lazy eye,” is a condition in which one eye has reduced vision due to abnormal visual development during childhood. It is typically treated in childhood, but it can also be treated in adults. The most effective treatment for amblyopia in adults is typically a form of vision therapy called “patching,” in which the stronger eye is covered with a patch for a certain number of hours each day, forcing the weaker eye to work harder. Other treatments that may be used in adults with amblyopia include:

Glasses or contact lenses: Wearing glasses or contact lenses can help to correct any refractive errors (such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism) that may be contributing to the amblyopia.

Eye drops: Eye drops containing atropine, a medication that dilates the pupil and temporarily paralyzes the focusing muscles in the eye, may be used to force the weaker eye to work harder.

Vision therapy: Vision therapy involves a series of exercises designed to improve visual skills and coordination between the eyes. This may include activities such as tracking moving objects, focusing on distant and near objects, and using both eyes together.

Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a physical problem with the eye (such as a misaligned eye or a cataract or refractive error) that is contributing to the amblyopia. We have had success creating a scenario where the amblyopic eye is seeing better than the normal eye in some circumstances. For example, we have treated the amblyopic eye with corrective eye surgery to allow the amblyopic eye to see better than the presbyopic “normal” eye at near. By using the “lazy” eye preferentially, the eye will often improve over time. This is more effective in cases of mild to moderate amblyopia.

It’s important to note that treatment for amblyopia in adults may not be as successful as treatment in children, but it can still be effective in improving vision in the affected eye. It’s also important to work closely with an eye care professional to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.