Private Squint Surgery London
Essential Insights for Your Squint Surgery Decision
Why Choose Private Squint Surgery Over NHS Treatment?
Private squint surgery in London offers consultations within one week and surgery within four weeks, compared to NHS waiting times of 18-24 months or longer. You receive care from surgeons who dedicate 100% of their practice to squint correction, with audited success rates exceeding 95%, flexible appointment scheduling, and personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
What Investment Should You Expect for Private Squint Surgery?
Private squint surgery costs in London range from £6,000 to £11,000 for comprehensive all-inclusive packages. London Squint Clinic offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees, covering consultation, surgery, anaesthesia, facility fees, medications, and follow-up care. Payment plans are available, with the Economy package requiring a £3,000 deposit and balance in instalments.
How Long Does Recovery Take After Squint Surgery?
Most patients experience significant improvement within the first week, with eye redness fading gradually over 2-4 weeks. Discomfort typically resolves within 3-4 days. Return to work occurs within 1-2 weeks depending on your occupation. Full results become apparent over 3-6 months as inflammation completely resolves and eye alignment stabilizes.
What Makes a Surgeon Qualified for Squint Surgery?
Look for surgeons with specialist fellowship training in strabismus, membership in the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, and exclusive dedication to squint surgery rather than general ophthalmology. Annual surgical volume matters enormously—surgeons performing hundreds of squint procedures yearly develop refined expertise. Audited success rates above 95% and referrals from other ophthalmologists indicate exceptional skill.
Who Benefits Most from Squint Surgery?
Ideal candidates include adults and children with persistent eye misalignment affecting confidence or causing double vision, those whose squints haven’t responded to glasses or prisms, individuals experiencing worsening misalignment over time, and anyone whose squint impacts professional opportunities or social interactions. Both childhood-onset and adult-onset strabismus can be successfully corrected with modern surgical techniques.
What Surgical Techniques Are Available for Squint Correction?
Modern squint surgery includes muscle recession (repositioning muscles further back to weaken pulling effect), muscle resection (shortening muscles to strengthen them), adjustable suture techniques (allowing fine-tuning within 24 hours post-surgery), and minimally invasive approaches using smaller incisions. The specific technique depends on your type of squint, with many cases requiring customized combination procedures for optimal results.
- Rapid Access: Private treatment delivers consultations within one week and surgery within four weeks, eliminating 18-24 month NHS waiting periods that prolong suffering and reduce quality of life.
- Specialist Expertise: Choose surgeons dedicating 100% of their practice to squint surgery with audited success rates exceeding 95%, rather than general ophthalmologists performing occasional strabismus procedures.
- Transparent Pricing: All-inclusive packages from £6,000-£11,000 cover every aspect of care with no hidden costs, with flexible payment options including instalment plans for accessibility.
- Personalized Treatment: Comprehensive assessments lasting 45-60 minutes ensure surgical plans are customized to your specific type of squint, anatomical considerations, and personal goals.
- Quick Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks, with discomfort resolving in 3-4 days and cosmetic appearance improving progressively over 2-4 weeks.
- Proven Outcomes: Landmark safety audits of 4,000 operations demonstrate exceptional results, with 100% of patients surveyed feeling the investment was appropriate or should have been higher.
- Comprehensive Care: Treatment includes detailed pre-operative assessment, advanced surgical techniques, same-day discharge, prescribed medications, and multiple follow-up appointments to ensure optimal healing.
- Life-Changing Impact: Successful squint correction transforms confidence, eliminates double vision, improves social interactions, enhances career opportunities, and restores the ability to maintain comfortable eye contact.
Table of Contents
- What Is Squint Surgery and Who Needs It in London
- Types of Squint Correction Procedures Available Privately
- Choosing the Right Squint Surgeon in London
- Private Squint Surgery Cost and Payment Options
- What to Expect During Your Squint Surgery Journey
- Recovery Timeline and Aftercare for Squint Surgery
- Benefits of Private Treatment vs NHS for Squint Correction
- Booking Your Consultation at London Squint Clinic
What Is Squint Surgery and Who Needs It in London
Squint surgery, or strabismus surgery, is a precise ophthalmological procedure designed to correct eye misalignment by adjusting the muscles that control eye movement. When your eyes don’t work together properly, one eye may turn inward (esotropia), outward (exotropia), upward (hypertropia), or downward (hypotropia). This ocular misalignment affects not only your appearance but can also cause double vision, reduced depth perception, and significant psychological distress.
The condition manifests in various forms across different age groups. Some individuals have lived with childhood-onset squints that were never treated or have returned after previous surgery. Others develop adult-onset strabismus due to neurological conditions, head injuries, thyroid eye disease, or age-related changes in eye muscle function. Regardless of when your squint developed, modern surgical techniques offer remarkable correction possibilities.
Candidates for squint surgery typically include adults and children experiencing persistent eye misalignment that hasn’t responded to non-surgical treatments such as glasses, prisms, or vision therapy. You might be an ideal candidate if you’re dealing with constant or intermittent squint affecting your self-confidence, experiencing double vision that interferes with daily activities like driving or reading, or noticing your squint worsening over time. Children with amblyopia (lazy eye) associated with squint may also benefit from surgical intervention to optimize visual development.
The functional implications of untreated strabismus extend beyond cosmetic concerns. Many patients struggle with impaired binocular vision, making it difficult to judge distances accurately or perform tasks requiring fine depth perception. Social interactions can become challenging when maintaining eye contact feels uncomfortable or when you’re self-conscious about your appearance. Professional opportunities may be affected, particularly in careers requiring excellent visual coordination or public-facing roles.
At London Squint Clinic, we assess each patient individually, considering the type and severity of your squint, your visual symptoms, previous treatments, and personal goals. Our comprehensive evaluation determines whether you’re a suitable candidate for surgical correction and which specific technique will deliver optimal results for your unique situation.
Types of Squint Correction Procedures Available Privately
Private squint surgery in London encompasses several sophisticated surgical techniques, each tailored to address specific types of eye misalignment. Understanding these procedures helps you appreciate the precision and expertise required for successful strabismus correction.
Muscle recession surgery involves repositioning an eye muscle further back on the eyeball to weaken its pulling effect. This technique is commonly used when a muscle is too strong, causing the eye to turn excessively in one direction. The surgeon carefully detaches the muscle from its original insertion point, measures the precise distance for repositioning, and reattaches it to achieve optimal alignment. Recession procedures are frequently performed on the medial rectus muscle for convergent squints or the lateral rectus for divergent squints.
Muscle resection surgery strengthens a weak eye muscle by shortening it. The surgeon removes a measured section of the muscle and reattaches it to its original position, effectively increasing its pulling power. This procedure is often combined with recession on the opposing muscle to achieve balanced eye alignment. Resection techniques require meticulous measurement and surgical precision to avoid overcorrection or undercorrection.
Adjustable suture techniques represent an advanced approach where the surgeon uses special temporary knots that can be fine-tuned within 24 hours after surgery. This method is particularly valuable for complex squints or cases where precise alignment is critical. Under topical anaesthesia, the surgeon can adjust the muscle position whilst you’re awake, allowing real-time assessment of eye alignment. This technique significantly improves surgical outcomes, especially for adults with longstanding or complicated strabismus.
Minimally invasive squint surgery utilizes smaller incisions and refined surgical instruments to reduce tissue trauma and accelerate recovery. These techniques maintain the same corrective effectiveness whilst minimizing post-operative discomfort and visible scarring. Advanced surgical microscopes and precision instruments enable surgeons to work with exceptional accuracy on the delicate eye muscles.
For patients with vertical deviations, superior or inferior rectus muscle surgery addresses upward or downward eye turns. Oblique muscle procedures, including superior oblique tuck or inferior oblique recession, correct rotational misalignments and certain types of vertical squints. Complex cases may require combination procedures involving multiple muscles in one or both eyes.
At London Squint Clinic, we employ state-of-the-art surgical equipment and techniques refined through thousands of successful procedures. Our approach is never one-size-fits-all; instead, we customize the surgical plan based on detailed pre-operative measurements, your specific type of squint, and your individual anatomical considerations. This personalized methodology contributes to our audited success rate exceeding 95 per cent.
Choosing the Right Squint Surgeon in London
Selecting the right squint surgeon in London is perhaps the most crucial decision in your treatment journey. Your eyes are irreplaceable, and strabismus surgery requires exceptional skill, extensive experience, and dedicated specialization. Not all ophthalmologists possess equal expertise in squint correction, making it essential to understand what distinguishes a true specialist.
Essential qualifications begin with full ophthalmology training and specialist fellowship training in strabismus and pediatric ophthalmology. Look for surgeons who are members of professional bodies such as the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and who maintain active involvement in strabismus research and education. However, qualifications alone don’t tell the complete story.
Experience with your specific type of squint matters enormously. A surgeon who performs occasional squint operations alongside general ophthalmology or cataract surgery cannot match the expertise of someone who dedicates their entire practice to strabismus. Ask potential surgeons about their annual surgical volume, their experience with cases similar to yours, and their outcomes for your specific condition. Surgeons handling hundreds of squint cases annually develop refined judgment and technical mastery that directly benefits your results.
Surgical success rates provide objective evidence of a surgeon’s capabilities. Reputable specialists publish audited results and willingly discuss their outcomes. At London Squint Clinic, our transparent approach includes sharing our audited success rate of over 95 per cent, based on landmark safety audits of 4,000 squint operations. This level of transparency demonstrates confidence in surgical outcomes and commitment to patient safety.
Patient testimonials and reviews offer valuable insights into the surgeon’s approach, communication style, and overall patient experience. Look for consistent patterns in feedback regarding surgical outcomes, post-operative care, and the surgeon’s ability to explain complex information clearly. However, remember that every case is unique, and individual results may vary.
The consultation process itself reveals much about your surgeon’s expertise and approach. A thorough initial assessment should include detailed measurements of eye alignment in different gaze positions, assessment of binocular vision, discussion of your symptoms and concerns, and clear explanation of recommended treatment options. Your surgeon should welcome questions, provide realistic expectations, and demonstrate genuine interest in your individual circumstances rather than rushing through a standardized consultation.
Consider asking potential surgeons about their approach to complex or revision cases, their complication management protocols, and whether other surgeons refer difficult cases to them. Surgeons recognized as experts by their peers often receive referrals for the most challenging situations, indicating exceptional skill and problem-solving abilities. At London Squint Clinic, we regularly receive referrals from other ophthalmologists for complex squint cases, reflecting our specialized expertise and reputation for managing challenging situations successfully.
Private Squint Surgery Cost and Payment Options
Understanding the financial investment required for private squint surgery in London helps you plan effectively and appreciate the value of specialist treatment. Whilst cost is an important consideration, it should be balanced against the expertise, technology, and outcomes you receive.
Private squint surgery costs in London typically range from £6,000 to £11,000 for comprehensive treatment packages. This variation reflects different service levels, surgical complexity, and facility standards. At London Squint Clinic, we offer transparent, all-inclusive pricing with four distinct packages designed to meet different needs and preferences.
Our Economy package, priced at £6,000, provides exceptional value through an accessible payment structure requiring a £3,000 deposit with the balance payable in instalments. This option makes life-changing squint correction achievable for patients seeking affordability without compromising on surgical expertise. The Business package at £7,000 offers outstanding value at St Anthony’s Hospital, combining expert care with practical pricing.
For patients seeking premium experiences, our First Class package at £11,000 delivers luxury private treatment at prestigious Harley Street facilities, whilst the International package at £8,000 provides convenient airport-location surgery at Gatwick Park Hospital, ideal for overseas patients or those preferring this accessible location. Pediatric squint surgery is priced at £8,000, reflecting the specialized care required for younger patients.
Several factors influence squint surgery costs. Surgical complexity plays a significant role; straightforward single-muscle procedures typically cost less than complex multi-muscle operations or revision surgeries following previous failed procedures. The surgeon’s expertise and reputation affect pricing, with world-renowned specialists commanding premium fees that reflect their exceptional skills and outcomes. Facility standards, including operating theatre technology, nursing care quality, and post-operative amenities, contribute to overall costs.
What’s included in your quoted price matters enormously. At London Squint Clinic, our all-inclusive packages cover your initial consultation (£150, which is separate), all pre-operative assessments, the surgical procedure itself, anaesthesia, facility fees, post-operative medications, and follow-up appointments. We maintain absolute transparency with no hidden extras, ensuring you understand exactly what you’re paying for. This comprehensive approach contrasts with some providers who quote attractive initial prices but add numerous additional charges.
Insurance coverage for squint surgery varies considerably between policies and depends on whether your condition is deemed medically necessary or primarily cosmetic. Some private medical insurance plans cover strabismus surgery when double vision or significant functional impairment is documented. However, many insurers exclude coverage for conditions they classify as cosmetic. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to clarify your coverage before proceeding. Our self-pay model means you don’t need insurance approval or referrals, eliminating bureaucratic delays.
When comparing private squint surgery costs with NHS treatment, consider the complete picture beyond monetary expense. NHS squint surgery is free at the point of care, but waiting times frequently extend 12-18 months or longer for initial consultations, with additional delays before surgery. During this waiting period, your quality of life, confidence, and visual function continue to suffer. Private treatment delivers consultations within one week and surgery within four weeks, representing a time saving of over a year in many cases.
The value of private treatment investment extends beyond speed. You receive care from surgeons who specialize exclusively in squint surgery rather than general ophthalmologists who perform occasional strabismus procedures. You benefit from the latest surgical techniques and technology, personalized treatment plans, flexible appointment scheduling around your commitments, and enhanced patient experience throughout your journey. For many patients, these advantages justify the financial investment, particularly when survey data shows 100 per cent of our patients felt the price was appropriate or should have been higher, reflecting the transformative value they received.
What to Expect During Your Squint Surgery Journey
Understanding each stage of your squint surgery journey helps reduce anxiety and ensures you’re fully prepared for this life-changing procedure. From initial consultation through to surgery day, we’ve designed every step to prioritize your comfort, safety, and optimal outcomes.
Your journey begins with an initial consultation where we conduct comprehensive assessments to understand your unique situation. This appointment typically lasts 45-60 minutes and includes detailed measurements of your eye alignment in various gaze positions using specialized equipment. We assess your binocular vision, measure the degree of misalignment, evaluate eye muscle function, and discuss your symptoms, concerns, and treatment goals. This thorough evaluation enables us to recommend the most appropriate surgical approach for your specific type of squint.
Pre-operative tests and measurements ensure surgical precision and safety. We perform detailed orthoptic assessments, measuring eye alignment with prisms and specialized charts. Photographs document your pre-operative appearance for comparison with post-operative results. We review your medical history, current medications, and any allergies to ensure safe anaesthesia and surgery. For patients with underlying conditions such as thyroid eye disease or previous neurological events, we may request additional investigations to optimize surgical planning.
On the day of surgery, you’ll arrive at the hospital or surgical facility approximately 90 minutes before your scheduled procedure time. After checking in, you’ll meet with nursing staff who will prepare you for surgery, including changing into a surgical gown and having vital signs monitored. Your surgeon will visit to answer any final questions and mark the eye or eyes being operated on, following strict safety protocols.
Anaesthesia options depend on your age, medical history, and personal preferences. Most adult squint surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring you’re completely asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure. This approach allows the surgeon to work with optimal precision without any patient movement. For certain cases, particularly when using adjustable sutures, local anaesthesia with sedation may be appropriate, allowing post-operative adjustment whilst you’re awake. Pediatric patients always receive general anaesthesia to ensure their safety and comfort.
The surgical procedure itself typically lasts 45-90 minutes, depending on complexity and the number of muscles being adjusted. Your surgeon makes small incisions in the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the white of your eye) to access the eye muscles. Using specialized microsurgical instruments and an operating microscope, they carefully adjust the muscle positions according to pre-operative measurements and surgical planning. The muscles are repositioned and secured with dissolvable sutures that don’t require removal. Throughout the procedure, meticulous attention to detail ensures optimal alignment whilst preserving eye health and function.
Immediate post-operative care begins in the recovery area where nursing staff monitor you as anaesthesia wears off. You may experience some discomfort, grittiness, or mild pain in your eye, which is normal and managed with prescribed pain relief. Your eye will appear red due to the surgical incisions, and you may notice some swelling or bruising around the eye. We provide detailed written instructions for post-operative care, including eye drop regimens and activity restrictions.
Same-day discharge is standard for squint surgery, with most patients leaving the hospital 2-4 hours after their procedure. You’ll need someone to accompany you home as you cannot drive immediately after general anaesthesia. Before discharge, we ensure you’re comfortable, understand your post-operative instructions, have your prescribed medications, and know how to contact us if concerns arise. We schedule your first follow-up appointment, typically within one week, to assess healing and eye alignment.
Recovery Timeline and Aftercare for Squint Surgery
Understanding the recovery timeline for squint surgery helps you plan appropriately and know what to expect during the healing process. Whilst individual experiences vary, most patients follow a predictable recovery pattern with excellent long-term outcomes.
The first 24-48 hours after surgery represent the most uncomfortable period. Your eye will feel sore, gritty, and irritated, similar to having something in your eye. The white of your eye appears bright red due to surgical incisions and minor bleeding under the conjunctiva, which can look alarming but is completely normal. Some patients experience mild headaches, light sensitivity, or watery eyes. We prescribe pain relief medication and anti-inflammatory eye drops to manage discomfort effectively. Applying cool compresses gently over closed eyelids can provide additional comfort.
During the first week, redness begins to fade gradually, though your eye may still appear quite bloodshot. Discomfort decreases significantly, with most patients requiring only occasional pain relief by day three or four. You’ll use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops several times daily to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Some double vision is common during this initial period as your brain adjusts to the new eye alignment; this typically resolves within days to weeks. Your first follow-up appointment occurs during this week, allowing us to assess healing, check eye alignment, and address any concerns.
Week two through four marks continued improvement in both appearance and comfort. Eye redness fades progressively, though some pinkness may persist for several weeks. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work or school during this period, depending on their occupation and individual healing. Vision typically stabilizes, with any temporary double vision resolving for most patients. You’ll continue using eye drops as prescribed, with the regimen often tapering during this phase. Physical activities can gradually resume, following your surgeon’s specific guidance.
Post-operative care instructions are crucial for optimal healing and results. You must use all prescribed eye drops exactly as directed, maintaining proper hygiene by washing hands before application. Avoid rubbing or touching your operated eye, even if it feels itchy or irritated. Keep water out of your eye for the first week; you can shower and wash your hair carefully, but avoid swimming, hot tubs, or submerging your face. Protect your eye from dust, dirt, and potential injury by avoiding dusty or dirty environments.
Activity restrictions help ensure safe healing. Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or activities that increase blood pressure to your head for two weeks post-surgery. Contact sports should be avoided for 4-6 weeks. Reading and screen time are permitted but may be uncomfortable initially; take regular breaks if your eyes feel strained. Driving is prohibited until your surgeon confirms your vision meets legal requirements and you feel comfortable with your eye alignment and visual function.
Follow-up appointments are scheduled strategically to monitor your progress. Your first appointment at one week assesses initial healing and alignment. A second appointment at 4-6 weeks evaluates longer-term results and determines if any adjustments are needed. Some patients require additional follow-ups at three months and six months to monitor stability. These appointments are included in your surgical package cost, ensuring comprehensive care throughout your recovery journey. You can learn more about optimal timing considerations at which age is best for squint surgery.
Signs of complications requiring immediate attention include severe pain not controlled by prescribed medication, sudden vision loss or significant vision changes, increasing redness or swelling after initial improvement, discharge or pus from the eye, or fever. Whilst complications are rare with our experienced surgical team, prompt attention to concerning symptoms ensures any issues are addressed quickly.
Return to work or school timelines vary based on your occupation and individual healing. Office workers often return within one week, whilst those in physically demanding jobs may need two weeks. Children typically return to school after one week, with restrictions on playground activities for two weeks. Your surgeon provides personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.
Long-term results become apparent over three to six months as all inflammation resolves and eye alignment stabilizes. Most patients achieve excellent cosmetic and functional outcomes, with straight eyes and improved binocular vision. Our audited success rate exceeding 95 per cent reflects the high probability of achieving your desired results. Some patients may require minor adjustments or, rarely, additional surgery to fine-tune alignment, which we discuss openly during your consultation and follow-up care.
Benefits of Private Treatment vs NHS for Squint Correction
Choosing between private squint surgery and NHS treatment represents a significant decision that impacts not only your timeline but also your overall experience and outcomes. Understanding the key differences helps you make an informed choice aligned with your priorities and circumstances.
Reduced waiting times constitute perhaps the most compelling advantage of private treatment. NHS waiting lists for squint surgery consultations frequently extend 12-18 months, with additional delays of 6-12 months between consultation and surgery. This means you could wait two years or longer for treatment whilst your quality of life, confidence, and visual function continue to suffer. In contrast, London Squint Clinic offers initial consultations within one week and surgery within four weeks, representing a time saving of approximately 18-24 months. For many patients, this rapid access alone justifies the investment in private care.
Surgeon choice and continuity of care differ markedly between systems. Within the NHS, you’re typically assigned to whichever consultant has availability, with limited ability to choose based on specific expertise or experience with your type of squint. You may see different doctors at various appointments, reducing continuity and the development of a therapeutic relationship. Private treatment allows you to select your surgeon based on their specialized expertise, published outcomes, and reputation. At London Squint Clinic, you receive care from Mr Nadeem Ali, a world expert who dedicates 100 per cent of his practice to squint and double vision surgery, ensuring unparalleled specialization.
Flexible appointment scheduling accommodates your personal and professional commitments. NHS appointments are offered at set times with limited flexibility, often requiring you to take time off work or arrange childcare around available slots. Private clinics offer evening and weekend appointments, allowing you to schedule consultations and follow-ups at convenient times. This flexibility reduces disruption to your daily life and makes it easier to attend all necessary appointments.
Advanced technology access varies between NHS and private facilities. Whilst NHS hospitals provide good standard care, budget constraints may limit access to the latest diagnostic equipment and surgical technologies. Private clinics invest in state-of-the-art equipment, including advanced surgical microscopes, precision measurement devices, and modern operating theatres designed specifically for ophthalmic procedures. These technological advantages contribute to improved surgical precision and outcomes.
Personalized treatment plans reflect the time and attention available in different settings. NHS consultations are often time-pressured due to high patient volumes, potentially limiting the depth of discussion about your individual concerns, preferences, and goals. Private consultations allow extended time for comprehensive assessment, detailed explanation of options, and collaborative treatment planning tailored to your unique situation. This personalized approach ensures your treatment aligns with your specific needs and expectations.
Enhanced patient experience encompasses numerous factors beyond clinical outcomes. Private facilities typically offer more comfortable waiting areas, private rooms, better catering, and more attentive nursing care. You experience less institutional atmosphere and more personalized service throughout your journey. These factors may seem superficial but contribute significantly to reducing anxiety and improving overall satisfaction with your care.
Faster access to follow-up care ensures any concerns or complications are addressed promptly. NHS follow-up appointments may be scheduled weeks or months apart due to capacity constraints, whilst private clinics offer rapid access if issues arise between scheduled appointments. This responsive approach provides peace of mind and ensures optimal outcomes through attentive post-operative monitoring.
It’s important to acknowledge that NHS squint surgery, when eventually accessed, is performed by qualified ophthalmologists and can achieve good results. The clinical procedure itself may be similar. However, the differences in waiting times, surgeon specialization, patient experience, and overall journey quality represent significant considerations when deciding between NHS and private treatment for your squint correction.
Booking Your Consultation at London Squint Clinic
Taking the first step towards correcting your squint begins with booking a comprehensive consultation at London Squint Clinic. We’ve designed our consultation process to be straightforward, informative, and focused entirely on understanding your unique needs and developing an optimal treatment plan.
Scheduling your initial appointment is simple and convenient. You can book online through our website, telephone our dedicated booking line, or email our patient coordinators who will arrange a suitable appointment time. We offer flexible scheduling including evening and weekend slots to accommodate your commitments. Most patients secure appointments within one week, allowing you to begin your journey towards straighter eyes and improved confidence without lengthy delays.
What to bring to your consultation ensures we can conduct a thorough assessment efficiently. Please bring any previous medical records related to your eye condition, including reports from previous eye examinations, details of any prior eye surgeries, and current prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses. If you’ve had previous squint surgery, information about those procedures helps us understand your history. Bring a list of current medications and any known allergies. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them to your appointment. Consider bringing a family member or friend for support and to help remember information discussed during the consultation.
The consultation fee at London Squint Clinic is £150, which covers your comprehensive initial assessment. This investment provides access to world-class expertise and detailed evaluation of your condition. The consultation fee is separate from surgical costs, allowing you to explore your options and receive expert advice before committing to treatment. We believe this transparent pricing structure respects your autonomy in making informed decisions about your care.
What happens during your first visit reflects our commitment to thorough, personalized assessment. Your consultation typically lasts 45-60 minutes, allowing adequate time for comprehensive evaluation without feeling rushed. You’ll meet with our specialist orthoptist who conducts detailed measurements of your eye alignment in different gaze positions, assesses your binocular vision and depth perception, and evaluates how your eyes work together. These measurements provide crucial data for surgical planning.
Following orthoptic assessment, you’ll consult with Mr Nadeem Ali, who will review your test results, examine your eyes, discuss your symptoms and concerns in detail, and explain the underlying cause of your squint. He’ll describe recommended treatment options, including the specific surgical technique most appropriate for your condition, expected outcomes, potential risks, and alternative approaches if applicable. This discussion is collaborative, ensuring you understand all aspects of your proposed treatment and have opportunities to ask questions.
The assessment and diagnosis process combines clinical expertise with advanced diagnostic technology. We use specialized equipment to measure the precise degree of eye misalignment, assess eye muscle function, evaluate your visual acuity and binocular vision, and document your pre-operative appearance with clinical photography. This comprehensive data collection ensures surgical planning is based on objective measurements rather than estimates, contributing to our exceptional success rates.
Treatment plan development occurs collaboratively during your consultation. Based on assessment findings, Mr Ali will recommend the most appropriate surgical approach for your specific type of squint, explain which eye muscles require adjustment, discuss whether one or both eyes need surgery, and provide realistic expectations about outcomes and recovery. You’ll receive a detailed written treatment plan summarizing recommendations, costs, and next steps.
Next steps after your consultation depend on your decision and preferences. If you choose to proceed with surgery, we’ll schedule your procedure at your preferred facility within four weeks. You’ll receive detailed pre-operative instructions, prescriptions for post-operative medications, and contact information for any questions before surgery. If you need time to consider your options or arrange finances, there’s no pressure; you can contact us when ready to proceed. Some patients may benefit from additional investigations or specialist referrals before surgery, which we’ll arrange as needed.
Our location in London provides convenient access for patients throughout the UK and internationally. We perform surgeries at multiple facilities including prestigious Harley Street, St Anthony’s Hospital, and Gatwick Park Hospital, allowing you to choose the location most convenient for your circumstances. Detailed directions and parking information are provided when you book your consultation and surgery.
Contact information for booking your consultation includes our telephone number, email address, and online booking system, all available on our website. Our patient coordinators are available to answer questions about the consultation process, discuss appointment availability, and provide any additional information you need to feel comfortable taking this important first step towards straighter eyes and renewed confidence.
Transform Your Life with Expert Private Squint Surgery in London
Living with a squint or double vision affects far more than just your appearance; it impacts your confidence, career opportunities, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Private squint surgery in London offers a transformative solution, combining world-class surgical expertise with rapid access, personalized care, and exceptional outcomes that can change your life within weeks rather than years.
Throughout this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the essential aspects of private strabismus treatment, from understanding different surgical techniques and choosing the right specialist surgeon to navigating costs, recovery expectations, and the compelling advantages of private care over NHS waiting lists. The key message is clear: your eyes deserve specialist attention from surgeons who dedicate their entire practice to squint correction, using advanced techniques refined through thousands of successful procedures.
At London Squint Clinic, our exclusive focus on squint and double vision surgery, combined with our audited success rate exceeding 95 per cent, demonstrates our commitment to delivering life-changing results. With consultations available within one week and surgery within four weeks, you don’t need to endure months or years of waiting whilst your condition affects your daily life. Our transparent, all-inclusive pricing ensures you understand exactly what you’re investing in, with no hidden costs or surprises.
The decision to pursue squint surgery represents an investment in yourself, your confidence, and your future. Survey data showing 100 per cent of our patients felt the price was appropriate or should have been higher reflects the transformative value of successful squint correction. When you can look people in the eye without self-consciousness, when photographs no longer cause distress, when double vision no longer limits your activities, the investment proves worthwhile many times over.
Taking the next step is straightforward. Book your comprehensive consultation to receive expert assessment, personalized treatment recommendations, and clear answers to all your questions. There’s no obligation to proceed with surgery following your consultation; we respect your autonomy in making this important decision. However, we’re confident that once you understand the possibilities and meet our specialist team, you’ll feel reassured about moving forward with treatment.
Your journey towards straighter eyes, improved vision, and renewed confidence begins with a single step. Don’t let another year pass living with the limitations and self-consciousness caused by your squint. Contact London Squint Clinic today to schedule your consultation and discover how private squint surgery can transform your life. Your eyes deserve nothing less than the finest specialist care available, and we’re here to deliver exactly that.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does squint surgery take to perform?
Squint surgery typically takes 45-90 minutes to complete, depending on the complexity of your case and the number of eye muscles requiring adjustment. Simple single-muscle procedures may take closer to 45 minutes, whilst complex cases involving multiple muscles or revision surgery may require up to 90 minutes. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia for most adults and all children, ensuring complete comfort throughout. You’ll spend an additional 2-4 hours at the hospital for pre-operative preparation and post-operative recovery before being discharged home the same day.
Is squint surgery painful?
Squint surgery itself is not painful as it’s performed under general anaesthesia, meaning you’re completely asleep during the procedure. After surgery, most patients experience discomfort rather than severe pain, describing sensations of grittiness, soreness, or feeling like something is in the eye. This discomfort is most noticeable during the first 24-48 hours and is effectively managed with prescribed pain relief medication and anti-inflammatory eye drops. By day three or four, most patients require only occasional pain relief, and discomfort continues to decrease throughout the first week. The eye will appear red and may feel irritated, but these symptoms are normal parts of the healing process.
What is the success rate of squint surgery?
At London Squint Clinic, our audited success rate for squint surgery exceeds 95 per cent, based on landmark safety audits of 4,000 squint operations. Success is defined as achieving satisfactory eye alignment that meets the patient’s functional and cosmetic goals. This exceptional success rate reflects our surgeon’s exclusive specialization in strabismus surgery, advanced surgical techniques including adjustable sutures when appropriate, and meticulous pre-operative planning based on comprehensive measurements. Whilst individual results vary depending on the type and severity of squint, the vast majority of patients achieve excellent outcomes with straight eyes and improved binocular vision. A small percentage of patients may require minor adjustments or, rarely, additional surgery to fine-tune alignment.
How much does private squint surgery cost in London?
Private squint surgery costs in London range from £6,000 to £11,000 for comprehensive treatment packages. At London Squint Clinic, we offer transparent, all-inclusive pricing with four distinct packages: Economy package at £6,000 with flexible payment options, Business package at £7,000 at St Anthony’s Hospital, First Class package at £11,000 at prestigious Harley Street facilities, and International package at £8,000 at Gatwick Park Hospital. Pediatric squint surgery is priced at £8,000. These prices include all pre-operative assessments, the surgical procedure, anaesthesia, facility fees, post-operative medications, and follow-up appointments. The initial consultation fee of £150 is separate. All costs are transparent with no hidden extras.
How long is the recovery time after squint surgery?
Recovery from squint surgery follows a predictable timeline with most patients returning to normal activities within 2-4 weeks. The first 24-48 hours involve the most discomfort, with soreness and redness being most noticeable. During the first week, discomfort decreases significantly and eye redness begins to fade, though your eye may still appear bloodshot. Most patients feel comfortable returning to office work or school after one week, whilst those in physically demanding jobs may need two weeks. Strenuous exercise and contact sports should be avoided for 2-6 weeks respectively. Eye redness continues to fade over several weeks, and vision typically stabilizes within the first month. Long-term results become fully apparent over three to six months as all inflammation resolves and eye alignment stabilizes completely.
Can squint surgery be done on adults?
Yes, squint surgery is highly effective for adults and can be performed at any age. Many adults either develop strabismus later in life due to conditions such as thyroid eye disease, neurological issues, or age-related changes, or have lived with childhood-onset squints that were never treated or have returned after previous surgery. Adult squint surgery addresses both functional concerns like double vision and cosmetic concerns affecting confidence and social interactions. The surgical techniques used for adults are similar to those for children, though adults may be candidates for adjustable suture techniques that allow fine-tuning of alignment within 24 hours after surgery. Recovery and outcomes are excellent for adult patients, with the same high success rates as pediatric cases. There is no upper age limit for squint surgery if you’re in good general health.
How long do I have to wait for private squint surgery in London?
At London Squint Clinic, you can access private squint surgery remarkably quickly compared to NHS waiting times. We offer initial consultations within one week of contact, and surgery can be scheduled within four weeks of your consultation, meaning your total wait time from first contact to surgery is typically just 4-5 weeks. This represents a time saving of approximately 18-24 months compared to NHS pathways, where waiting lists for initial consultations frequently extend 12-18 months, with additional delays of 6-12 months between consultation and surgery. Our rapid access allows you to address your squint and improve your quality of life without enduring lengthy waits whilst your condition affects your confidence, vision, and daily activities.
Find out if you are suitable for Double Vision Treatment
Not everyone is eligible for double vision surgery.
Find out if you could benefit from this life-changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
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Hello, I’m Nadeem Ali
I’m one of the few eye surgeons in the world with 100% focus on Squint and Double Vision Surgery.
I have 24 years of eye surgery experience, and worked for 13 years as a Consultant at London’s renowned Moorfields Eye Hospital.
In 2023, I left the NHS to focus fully on treating patients from across the world at the London Squint Clinic. You can read more about me here.
There’s lots of information on the website about: squint surgery, double vision surgery and our pricing.
The most rewarding part of my job is hearing patients tell me how squint or double vision surgery has changed their lives. You can hear these stories here.
Mr Nadeem Ali
MA MB BChir MRCOphth FRCSEd(Ophth)

