Kudret Eye IstanbulEye Treatments In Children
What Causes Lazy Eye (Amblyopia)?
Lazy eye (amblyopia) is reduced vision in one or both eyes because sight did not develop properly in childhood. This article explains its causes,…
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
- Op. Dr. Deniz Oygar Baylançiçek
- Last updated:
- 3 min read
- Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Nail Sönmez
What is Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)?
Amblyopia (lazy eye) is a condition in which one eye has a lower visual capacity compared to normal limits or compared to the other eye, without any structural defect in the eye or optic nerve. Vision is a sense that is acquired from birth. As the brain develops, the ability to see also develops and more detailed vision is learned. If, during this development process, there is a condition that interferes with the ability to see, such as one eye having a stronger prescription than the other, vision in that eye may be more blurred. This can lead to the problem of lazy eye.What are the causes of lazy eye?
When lazy eye is neglected, it can lead to a rapid decrease in visual acuity, loss of the ability to see with both eyes together and difficulties in depth perception. Since it usually develops during childhood, self-awareness of the individual is quite difficult. Strabismus, as the medical term is known, is recognized as one of the most common causes of lazy eye.Strabismus
A shift in one eye is called strabismus. This causes both eyes to lose their parallelism to each other. There are six extraocular muscles in each eye. A lack or excess of strength in one or more of these muscles can lead to strabismus. While one eye looks straight, the other eye may shift inward, outward, upward or downward In some cases, strabismus can be seen in both eyes. The shift in the eyes can be permanent or temporary, depending on the cause of the strabismus. There is no single cause of strabismus. Strabismus can occur due to different factors. Early diagnosis is of great importance in the treatment of strabismus.Cataract
Lazy eye can also be caused by this condition. Cataract, which can be present at birth, is a possible cause of lazy eye. When present at birth, cataracts can have an early enough effect to cause lazy eye. In this case, treatment should be initiated immediately.Refractive Error
When refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism show a significant difference in one eye compared to the other, this can lead to lazy eye. In this case, it is important to prevent or treat lazy eye.Symptoms of lazy eye
Symptoms of lazy eye can manifest themselves in different ways. When the disease is left untreated, it can be observed as a rapid decrease in visual acuity, loss of binocular vision (using both eyes together) and difficulty in perceiving depth of field. Since the disease occurs in childhood, starting after birth, it is difficult for the person to recognize it on their own. It often gives no symptoms and the child does not notice it, which is why at least one eye examination between the ages of 3 and 5 is recommended. Treatment works best before the age of 7-8. It is essential that the family is sensitive about recognizing them. Regular check-ups help to make an early diagnosis. Symptoms of lazy eye include vision loss that does not improve despite wearing glasses. A squint (strabismus) may accompany it, and it can also be one of its causes.Treatment of lazy eye
Today, lazy eye occurs in an average of 3 percent of the total world population. Lazy eye treatment is most effective before the age of 7-8; it can also be tried in older children. Thus, the success rate can be increased with early treatment. For treatment, the disease that causes the problem is treated first. If the lazy eye treatment is caused by cataracts, strabismus or eyelid, these problems can be solved with intervention. There is no surgical intervention other than these options. If there is a need for treatment using glasses, this treatment is performed. Then, occlusion (patching) therapy is started. The aim here is to improve vision by forcing the weak side to be used. Thus, the eye with good vision is covered with an adhesive pad and the eye with lazy eye is aimed to work. At the end of the period calculated at the beginning of the treatment, there is an increase in visual acuity.Why choose Kudret Eye İstanbul for your procedure?
Over 24 years in eye care: three eye hospitals and a general hospital, a team of specialist surgeons and technology renewed every year.
Over 24 years of experience
Hundreds of thousands of successful operations and a name trusted across generations.
The latest technology
World-leading equipment for SMILE PRO, iLASIK and trifocal lenses.
Specialist surgeons
Every treatment is performed by a surgeon who specialises in it.
Lifetime aftercare
Follow-up checks and, if ever needed, enhancement are our responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is lazy eye diagnosed?
Lazy eye is usually diagnosed during an eye examination. Especially in children, comprehensive eye examinations at an early age are important for diagnosis.
Can lazy eye be treated?
Yes, it can be treated if detected early. Treatment options may include the use of an eye patch, glasses, medications, visual therapy or surgery. Treatment is usually more effective at an earlier age.
Until what age can lazy eye be treated?
Treatment of lazy eye is most effective before the age of 7-8; it can also be tried in older children.
Can lazy eye occur in both eyes?
Yes, lazy eye can occur in both eyes. However, one eye is usually affected more than the other.
Does lazy eye require surgical intervention?
The treatment of lazy eye usually does not require surgery. However, if there are underlying causes such as strabismus or cataracts, surgical intervention may be necessary.
What is eye patch treatment for lazy eye?
In eye patch treatment, the stronger eye is closed and the weaker eye is made to work harder. This helps to strengthen the signals to the brain from the weaker eye.
What problems does untreated lazy eye cause?
If left untreated, lazy eye can lead to permanent vision loss. In addition, problems such as impaired depth perception, decreased quality of life and loss of functional vision may occur. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment is very important.
Patient Reviews
Outstanding care from start to finish. The team ensured I was fully briefed before and upon my arrival, and I felt reassured throughout the entire procedure. Jem, Dr Mehmet Ali Ozdil and Zuhal delivered exceptional service and made me feel completely at ease during my Femto‑LASIK surgery. Note, following their simple aftercare instructions is also key to recovery.
They made the process of coming to a country where I don’t speak the language and having eye surgery (frightening enough in your home town) very easy indeed. I had a wonderful interpreter with me through the entire process every day, she made everything so easy. First class facilities, first class staff and a very convenient location.
A very kind and professional medical team! The surgery was completely straightforward and was completed relatively quickly. The entire team, and especially Zuhal, my patient coordinator, was always available, incredibly helpful, and genuinely pleasant throughout the whole process. She stayed by my side from start to finish, explained everything thoroughly, and always made sure I understood what was happening. The doctor worked in a very calm and professional manner, and I never felt uncertain or uncomfortable at any point. There were three fresh meals each day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and they were all very enjoyable. The hospital rooms were also very clean and well maintained. Overall, I had a very positive experience with this hospital. I’m truly grateful to the entire team and would wholeheartedly recommend this hospital to anyone.
Hello, so I went to Optical Express in UK but they quoted me an insanely high price for LASIK Surgery. After conducting research on multiple different hospitals and eye surgery places in Turkey. I settled on Kudret Goz. Throughout the entire period they were helpful in answering all my questions and very supportive. They have very experienced doctors who perform LASIK surgery multiple times a day for 20 years plus using the latest Johnson and Johnson technology. As soon as I landed at the airport they picked me up, dropped me at the hospital where I had my own comfortable room. They provided breakfast, lunch and dinner. In the morning they conducted tests to check my vision and if I’m feasible for the surgery, the same evening the surgery happened. I was nervous but It lasted 5 - 10 minutes and rested in my room that evening taking eye drops and disinfect eye drops every hour. The next day I woke up and my vision had become incredibly better, with every passing hour it got better and better. Within 24 hours my vision was incredibly clear and I was amazed. Thank you for operating the surgery and truly providing a life changing experience. For the price and quality of service Kudret Goz is unrivalled.
I have just returned from having Lens transplantation at Kudret Eye Hospital Istanbul. I was a lone traveller who was terrified at the prospect of eye surgery even having done my research. I have to say ALL the staff at Kudret were absolutely amazing. From 1st contacting them the communication was excellent no question was too much and always received a very prompt response. I was met at the airport in the middle of the night and taken straight to the hospital, was shown to my room. I felt very safe. I had numerous test the following day and then a consultation with the Doctor who advised me of my best implants. There was always someone with me who was able to translate anything said. I had my 1st op that afternoon again I felt safe and very confident with the professionalism of all the staff. Surgery took approximately 20 mins. I had no pain and the next day was able to see near intermediate and distance although not 100% but without glasses. After further checks I then went in for my second surgery. Again all went smoothly. The following day sight had improved even more in my 1st eye and then on removal of my eye patch my 2nd eye sight was great. I am thrilled to be glasses free and my vision improves every day. I was told it can take between 1 -3 weeks for the full result. I was given eye drops for home and full care instructions. I am very grateful to all those involved in my journey Thank you.
I visited OE in the UK, which quoted £5,500 for a LASIK surgery on both my eyes. As a result, I subsequently contacted Kudret Goz Istanbul via WhatsApp, and I must say I was very impressed by the level and quality of service. The initial contact person, Cem, was very helpful and explained the process, cost (much more reasonable than the UK clinic), and aftercare procedures very clearly. The doctor that I was assigned was Dr Nail Sönmez, who was very experienced and conducted a very effective iLASIK surgery, which only lasted about 10-15 minutes, and led to a significant improvement in my vision. He was also very transparent about the associated risks involved after the operation and advised how those could be mitigated after the surgery. Although the doctor and Cem spoke English, I was also assigned a translator, Zuhal, who was very friendly and helped me communicate with other hospital staff when needed. Therefore, I highly recommend Kudret Goz Istanbul for any UK resident seeking high-quality LASIK eye surgery at an affordable price.
My wife and I both had lens replacement here due to both having cataracts. I have to say from start to finish the whole experience was excellent. Careing helpful staff took care of all our needs and queries. Experienced expert surgeon did the operations on both eyes which only takes around 10 to 15 minutes and is completely painless. Excellent aftercare after the operations. Excellent value especially compared to the UK. For the two of us we paid plot less than one operation would cost in the UK. In particular I would like to thank Gem and Zuhan, both of whom speak English, for their care and attention also i would like to thank Dr Mehmet for his expertise. We have been home now for a month or so and our vision just keeps getting better and better as explained. I have no hesitation in recommding this excellent hospital. Thanks for our new eyes.
My sister and I recently traveled from London to Istanbul for laser eye operations, and I cannot rave enough about the exceptional care we received at Kudret Göz. Despite arriving at 4:30 AM, our pre-booked transport was seamlessly ready, whisking us directly to the hospital. From the moment we stepped through the doors, the warm welcome and hospitality made us feel instantly at ease. We were promptly shown to our rooms, and the staff's genuine kindness and attentiveness completely calmed any pre-operation jitters. They truly went above and beyond to ensure we felt relaxed and comfortable throughout the entire process. Beyond the outstanding medical care, the hospital's location is a huge bonus. Theres a massive mall called the Nautilus less than a 5 minute walk away from the hospital. It has amazing food spots along with some familiar ones. Overall, I'm beyond delighted with my experience at Kudret Göz. I was truly astounded by the immense effort they put in to ensure such a seamless and positive visit, all at an incredibly fair price!!
As someone who doesn't write reviews, I feel that this is an important opportunity to reach out to others. I was full of doubts , insecurity and skepticism about this procedure. I bought into all the negatives and downsides of lens replacement surgery , Whilst doing my research . After speaking to Jem , who put no pressure on me to sell me this . I trusted and respected him . There are many places in Turkey ( Medical tourism). , who are pushy , and run clinics offering , Hair , teeth , eyes ect. Kudret goz is a eye hospital that specializes in just eyes. I did arrive nervous, But saw how professional they are. The staff were super and so friendly, From the cleaners , security, receptionists and doctors . The place was spotless and I was comfortable, even 3 hospital meals per day. I'm amazed that my results are immediate. I can see perfectly 20/20 vision both eyes . No halos . Minimal irritation in eyes after op for an hour or 2. I'm amazed at how easy it is . I flew back to Bristol and drove back to South wales late at night . And my eyes at night were spot on . I'm delighted to not be wearing glasses anymore. Which Is given me freedom and a new confidence. I ride motorbikes and can't wait to get out on the bike 🏍. Looking forward to snooker , swimming and playing football. No glasses . My advice would be not to read to much ( scare mongering tactics) i would recommend this to everyone , family , friends and anyone who wants to listen . Best couple of grand I've ever spent . Update . 1 month on perfect vision . No problems.
Easy process to book appointment, clear communication throughout. The hospital I clean and well-equipped. The staff friendly and helpful. A translator on hand from the moment I arrived until I left The preparation and tests pror to the Yag laser procedure, faultless. Clear information given on each part if the process. The procedure was painless, and no ill effects and I could see clearly about 30 minutes after the procedure. I cannot recommend them enough .
I’m very happy I chose to have my LASIK procedure done at Kudret Göz in Istanbul. From the beginning, the communication was excellent. They speak very good English and were quick to respond to all my questions via text, which made the entire process much easier. On the day of the operation, everything moved efficiently and smoothly. I felt completely comfortable during each test and step of the procedure. The doctor also spoke excellent English and took the time to reassure me with all my questions. The rest of the staff were incredibly helpful and professional, and the clinic itself was very clean and well-organized. I would highly recommend Kudret Göz to anyone considering LASIK.
Related posts
References
- 1.Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) · NEI, 2024
- 2.Amblyopia: What Is Lazy Eye? · AAO, 2026
- 3.Lazy eye · NHS, 2026