Criteria for surgery may vary somewhat, but generally surgery is indicated when the exotropia is frequently present, when the patient is experiencing significant symptoms (eyestrain, double vision, squinting), or when there is evidence that the patient is losing "binocular vision." Surgery may not be recommended if the ...

What happens if exotropia is left untreated?

Generally, exotropia progresses in frequency and duration. As the disorder progresses, the eyes start to turn out when looking at close objects as well as those in the distance. If left untreated, the eye may turn out continually, causing a loss of binocular vision or stereopsis.

How long does it take to correct exotropia?

Exotropia—or an outward turning of the eyes—is a common type of strabismus accounting for up to 25 percent of all ocular misalignment in early childhood. Transient intermittent exotropia is sometimes seen in the first 4 - 6 weeks of life and, if mild, can resolve spontaneously by 6 - 8 weeks of age.