Squint Surgery2026-10-26T15:44:58+00:00

Adult Squint Surgery in London

Trusted by patients worldwide

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Regain your self-confidence

Squint stops people seeing the real you. When you have a squint, you can’t look people in the eye, can’t have photos taken, don’t like online meetings, don’t like meeting new people. When you know your eyes are holding you back in life, it’s time to be free from the burden of squint.

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Confidence starts with clear vision

The constant worry about how your eyes look is gone. No more avoiding eye contact or feeling self-conscious in conversations. The anxiety of being judged can ease, replaced by newfound confidence. You feel lighter, free from the emotional weight of your squint. For the first time in years, you feel like yourself.

Wake up to a new you

You wake up, look in the mirror, and smile—your eyes are straight, and your vision is clear. You walk into a café, meet a friend, and feel at ease, no longer worrying about where to look. At work, you present with confidence. Life feels simpler, smoother, and full of possibilities.

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Be seen the way you were meant to be

Friends and family will notice something different—your newfound confidence. They’ll see you making eye contact, engaging naturally, and smiling more. You’ll come across as more self-assured, comfortable in your own skin. Instead of focusing on your squint, people will see the real you—bright, confident, and ready for anything.

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Emma’s story as featured in Women’s Health Magazine

Our patient Emma shared her squint surgery story in this informative article.

Squint surgery before and after pictures

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Meet your surgeon

Who is Mr Ali?

Mr Nadeem Ali is a world expert in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of Squint (Strabismus).

There are many eye surgeons who do mainly cataract and a bit of adult squint surgery on the side. There are many who do general ophthalmology for children and a bit of kids’ and adult squint surgery on the side.

But there are very few people in the world who specialise 100% in squint surgery in adults. Mr Ali does just that.

He holds the following degrees:

  • MA – Triple First class (Cambridge). He was top of the year for 2 out of 3 years.
  • MB BChir with distinction (Cambridge)
  • MRCOphth (Royal College of Ophthalmologists, London)
  • FRCSEd(Ophth) (Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh).

Born in the North East of England, Mr Ali attended the Royal Grammar School, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

He studied medicine at the University of Cambridge and graduated with a Triple First Class degree.

His College, Gonville and Caius, was the leading medical college at the University and boasts alumni such as William Harvey (who discovered the circulation of the blood) and Francis Crick (who discovered DNA). During his undergraduate years, he was selected for a Summer Research Programme at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, New York, the labs of James Watson (the other discovered of DNA), where he studied the developing visual system with Neuroscientist Prof Hollis Cline. He also completed his undergraduate degree in Neurophysiology, conducting research with Prof Roger Carpenter, a pioneer of eye movement research.

He won 15 academic prizes and was top student of the University in medicine for two years of his course. He was also awarded the prestigious Schuldham Plate, given to the top-performing student over all academic subjects, over the three years of undergraduate study.

He completed his medical school at the University of Cambridge Clinical School, graduating with distinction.

Mr Ali completed his general Ophthalmic training in the North East of England.

He then pursued a Fellowship with Mike Clarke, a world-expert on squint and double vision, who taught him much of what he knows.

After that, he undertook a fellowship in Neuro-Ophthalmology at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square wher he gained experience in complex neurological causes of double vision.

He also did a Fellowship Squint and Double Vision surgery at the world-renowned Moorfields Eye Hospital in London.

He was then uniquely privileged to undergo a further 18 months of advanced, 1:1 training in squint and double vision surgery with Mr John Lee (deceased), probably the world’s leading squint expert.

He was then one of the youngest Consultants at that time appointed to the role of Consultant Eye Surgeon at Moorfields Eye Hospital.

He worked as Consultant at Moorfields for 13 years from 2010-2023, receiving referrals of complex cases in squint and double vision from across the country.

Mr Ali has held/holds the following roles at Consultant level:

  • Consultant in Squint, Neuro-Ophthalmology and Paediatric Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital – City Road, London (2010-2014)
  • Consultant in Neuro-Ophthalmology, the Royal London Hospital, London (2010-2014)
  • Consultant in Squint, Neuro-Ophthalmology and Paediatric Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital – South, London (2014-2023)
  • Lead for Adult Squint, Double Vision and Neuro-Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital – South, London (2016-2023)
  • Honorary Consultant to the National Hospital for Neuro-Disability, London (2021-2023)
  • Visiting Consultant in Squint Surgery, Gibraltar Health Authority (2018- present)
  • Visiting Consultant in Squint Surgery, Iceland Government Health Service (2023-present)

Real transformations from our patients

People who do their homework choose us.
Here’s 9 reasons why.

1. The specialists

We are a clinic dedicated to squint (strabismus) and double vision.

2. Focused expertise

Mr Ali’s practice is dedicated to squint and double vision surgery.

3. Experience

Mr Ali has 24 years of surgical experience, covering the most simple to the most complex cases.

4. Patient reviews

Read what patients say in our Google reviews. Read them all here

5. Self-refer, self-pay

You don’t need a referral. Simply book a video or in-person appointment to get things started. We are a 100% self-pay clinic.

6. Short waits

We can offer your life-changing surgery within 4 weeks.

7. Advanced techniques

Squint and double vision surgery is an art as well as a science. Mr Ali uses techniques such as adjustable sutures when clinically indicated.

8. A clear discussion of outcomes

Your likely outcome, and the chance of needing further treatment, are discussed with Mr Ali at your consultation.

9. VIP access to your surgeon

On our Signature Care package, you get 24/7 access to Mr Ali by WhatsApp during your recovery, and ongoing contact with him for eye advice after discharge. See our pricing page for what each package includes.

An international centre of excellence

These are real locations of our recent patients.

Wherever you are in UK or the world, we can see you by video then arrange your surgery in London.

Patients come to us from all over the UK and from across the world (7)
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Download Our Detailed Guide

Mr Ali has written this exclusive guide for patients with squint.

It answers the common questions people have when considering surgery.

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See the world with straighter eyes

Book your initial appointment to find out if you are suitable for life-changing surgery

See the world with straighter eyes

Book your initial appointment to find out if you are suitable for life-changing eye surgery.

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3 easy steps to free yourself from squint

Living with squint can really impact your life.
We’re here to help make that a thing of the past.
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Patients come to us from all over the UK and from across the world (2)

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

If a squint affects your daily life, a consultation is the first step.  Book a video or in-person appointment.

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MEET YOUR SURGEON

Mr Nadeem Ali MA MB BChir MRCOphth FRCSEd(Ophth), consultant ophthalmic surgeon and former Moorfields Eye Hospital consultant (2010–2023).

At your appointment, Mr Ali will discuss your squint issues and answer any questions that you have.

You’ll leave knowing if you can finally have the surgery you want.

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ENJOY YOUR NEW LIFE

The number one thing we hear from our patients after surgery is:

“You have honestly changed my life.”

And the number two thing is:

“Why didn’t I have this done sooner?”

So bite the bullet and start your journey today!

Squint surgery Frequently Asked Questions

Squint surgery suitability criteria

To be a good candidate for squint surgery, you should meet the following criteria:

  • Be 18 or over (children are seen separately from age 3).
  • Have a visible misalignment of the eyes which affects your life.
  • You may have had no previous squint surgery, or had multiple previous operations.
  • You may have been denied surgery through the NHS.
  • You may have been told that squint surgery is not an option elsewhere.

Squint surgery aims to realign the eyes so they look normal.

During the surgery, the eye muscles are either tightened or relaxed to change the pull on the eyeballs. This changes the alignment of the eyes. At no point is your eye taken out. It’s all done through micro-incision surgery.

Advantages:

  • Outcomes: Most patients need only one operation; your likely outcome is discussed at your consultation.
  • Quick Procedure: Surgery is usually completed in less than an hour.
  • Anaesthesia Options: General anaesthetic is the norm, but you can also have surgery under local anaesthesia as well.
  • Short Wait Time: Surgery can be done within 3 weeks from the first consultation.
  • Day Case Surgery: No overnight stay required.
  • Immediate Benefits: Many patients notice improvement from day 1, but it does take a few weeks for the eyes to settle down.
  • Minimal Pain: Most patients experience very little discomfort afterward. A couple of days of paracetamol is all most patients need.
  • Rapid rehabilitation: You can return to normal daily activities after a day, you can exercise after two days, you can return to work after 1-2 weeks.

Disadvantages:

  • Low Risk of Complications: Like all surgery, the risk of complications is not zero. Loss of vision is very rare.
  • Not perfection: We aim for a significant improvement in eye alignment but can’t achieve 100% perfection. Still, what we normally achieve is life-changing.
  • Healing time: It takes about 8 weeks for the eyes to feel fully back to normal.
  • Irritation: The stitches we use take 6-7 weeks to dissolve and the eyes can feel scratchy during that period, but it improves week by week. Some patients may experience mild pain, swelling, or discomfort.
  • Potential Need for Further Adjustments: Not all patients achieve perfect results and may need additional procedures. Your risk of this will be explained at your appointment.

Squint surgery is generally safe, but like any operation it carries risks.

However, like any surgery, there are some risks. These include:

  • Overcorrection or undercorrection, where the problem might not be fully fixed.
  • The need for a further operation, which affects a small proportion of patients.
  • New or persistent double vision, which is uncommon.
  • Loss of vision, which is very rare.
  • Redness or scarring on the white part of the eye.
  • A slight change in the shape of the eyelid.

Overall, serious complications are uncommon. Mr Ali will discuss the risks that apply to you.

Besides surgery, or leaving things alone, the other option is botulinum toxin injections.

Botulinum toxin injections can make the eyes straighter for a period of a few months. However, the injections usually need repeating every few months and can worsen vision initially.

Surgery usually gives a longer-lasting result, although some patients need further treatment over time.

  1. Book an initial consultation to see if surgery is right for you and discuss your options.
  2. Get pre-surgery measurements, either local to you or in London. Sometimes, these can be taken on the day of surgery.
  3. Undergo the surgery as a day case, meaning you don’t stay overnight.
  4. Put in your post-op drops for 6-7 weeks.
  5. Attend two follow-up appointments, one in 2 weeks and another in 2 months, to check your progress and healing.
  6. Enjoy the results of your surgery!

Successful squint surgery:

  • increases your self-esteem
  • increases your confidence

It makes you more confident:

  • making eye contact
  • meeting new people
  • in your relationships
  • in your career
  • in making presentations
  • in online meetings
  • having your photo taken

Further information on squint

Read these articles by the London Squint Clinic team

What to Expect During Your Initial Private Squint Surgery Consultation

Your initial private squint surgery consultation is a crucial step towards addressing adult strabismus or double vision. Led by Mr Nadeem Ali, this appointment provides a personalised diagnosis and outlines your surgical plan. Prepare for a comprehensive assessment and expert guidance.

Your Complete Guide to Recovery After Private Squint Surgery: Timeline, Tips, and Results

Recovery after private squint surgery involves managing redness and discomfort for 1-2 weeks, with final eye position settling over 6-8 weeks. This guide details your timeline, essential aftercare, and what to expect for lasting results. Learn how specialist care ensures optimal outcomes.

How Quickly Can Private Squint Surgery Be Arranged? A Timeline

The private squint surgery timeline for adults is significantly shorter than non-private routes. A specialist clinic can often proceed from initial consultation to surgery within four weeks, providing rapid relief from symptoms like double vision and eye misalignment. This expedited process offers a fast track to clearer vision.

Risks and Side Effects Associated with Anaesthesia in Eye Muscle Surgery

Adults undergoing squint correction often have concerns about anaesthesia. This post details common side effects and specific risks associated with anaesthesia in eye muscle surgery, highlighting how modern practices and pre-operative consultations ensure patient safety. Learn what to expect during your recovery.

Comparing Outcomes of Adjustable vs. Non-Adjustable Strabismus Surgery

Adjustable vs non-adjustable strabismus surgery differs in alignment timing. Non-adjustable secures muscles permanently during surgery, while adjustable allows fine-tuning post-operation for enhanced precision. Understand these key distinctions for adult squint correction.

Is Adjustable Suture Surgery Suitable for All Types of Squint?

Adjustable suture surgery offers precise correction for adult squint, allowing fine-tuning of eye alignment post-operation. This advanced technique aims for higher success rates and reduces the need for further procedures, making it suitable for most adult strabismus cases. Discover its benefits and suitability.

Self-Referral for Squint Surgery: How to Take Control of Your Treatment

Self-referral for squint surgery allows you to directly book a consultation with a specialist without a GP referral. This pathway offers direct access to expert care, bypassing lengthy administrative steps and giving you control over your treatment. Discover how to get specialist squint surgery faster.

Beyond Aesthetics: The Practical Advantages of Straight Eyes in Daily Life

Beyond aesthetics, straight eyes offer significant practical advantages in daily life. Improve depth perception, reduce discomfort, and enhance functional vision for everyday activities. Specialist adult squint surgery can help achieve these life-changing outcomes.

How to Prepare for Your First Appointment at a Specialist Squint Clinic

Thorough preparation for your specialist squint appointment ensures a productive consultation. Gather essential documents, understand what to bring, and learn how to maximise your discussion for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. This guide helps you prepare effectively.

The Functional and Emotional Benefits of Correcting an Adult Squint

Adult squint correction offers life-changing functional and emotional benefits. It restores clear vision, eliminates double vision, and improves depth perception for daily activities. Emotionally, it boosts self-esteem, confidence, and social interaction, significantly enhancing quality of life.

What Specific Tests Are Used to Measure Eye Misalignment and Plan Surgery?

Accurate eye misalignment measurement is crucial for successful adult squint surgery. This post details the specific tests, like the Prism Cover Test, used by specialists to precisely quantify strabismus and inform tailored surgical plans for restoring alignment and vision. Discover how expert assessment leads to optimal outcomes.

How a Long Wait for Squint Surgery Can Impact Vision and Quality of Life

Delayed squint surgery can lead to a progressive decline in visual function, including persistent double vision and loss of depth perception. Beyond sight, it profoundly affects psychosocial well-being and quality of life. Understand the risks and explore timely solutions.

What Happens During an Adult Strabismus Surgery Consultation with a Specialist?

A strabismus surgery consultation is the crucial first step to correcting adult eye misalignment and double vision. This comprehensive diagnostic process maps your condition and helps formulate a tailored surgical plan with a specialist. Discover what to expect during your assessment.

The Reality of NHS Waiting Times for Adult Strabismus Surgery

Understanding nhs waiting times strabismus surgery is critical for adults with eye misalignment or double vision. The gap between official targets and reality leads to prolonged discomfort and uncertainty. This article overviews NHS waiting periods for adult squint surgery, the reasons for delays, and self-pay alternatives for faster treatment.

Adult Strabismus Surgery Explained: From Initial Consultation to the Operating Theatre

The adult strabismus surgery process corrects eye misalignment and can resolve double vision, improving function and confidence. This guide explains what to expect, from the initial diagnostic consultation to the surgical procedure and post-operative care.

Medical Conditions That Might Complicate or Prevent Strabismus Surgery

Understanding strabismus surgery contraindications is crucial for a safe procedure. Various medical, ophthalmic, and neurological conditions can influence eligibility and surgical approach. A specialist evaluation is essential to create a personalised treatment plan for adults seeking squint correction.

Clear answers on squint surgery before you decide

Living with a squint? This guide covers treatment options, surgery, and expected results. Download now for clearer vision and confidence

Clear answers on squint surgery before you decide

Living with a squint? This guide covers treatment options, surgery, and expected results. Download now for clearer vision and confidence

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We’d love to talk!
email info@londonsquintclinic.com
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dr nadeem ali scaled

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)

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