The thought of pediatric eye surgery can be overwhelming for any parent or caregiver. However, with the advancements in technology and medical techniques, pediatric eye surgery has become a relatively safe and common procedure. Understanding what to expect can make all the difference, putting your mind at ease and helping you take this important step confidently.
At Conestoga Eye, we’re proud to be a trusted provider of expert ophthalmological care for families in Hershey and Lancaster, PA. Our experienced team, led by David Silbert MD FAAP, specializes in pediatric eye care and surgery, offering trusted guidance every step of the way. We’re here to answer your questions, provide peace of mind, and deliver the best possible outcomes for your child. If you’re ready to take the next step, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us today to explore how we can help.
Common Reasons for Pediatric Eye Surgery
Pediatric eye surgery is often recommended to address specific eye conditions that cannot be fully corrected using glasses, patches, or medications alone. At Conestoga Eye, eye surgery is considered the last intervention when possible. While some children may have conditions needing surgery and the most logical next step, others will be recommended surgery only after other appropriate options have been exhausted. Here are some of the most common pediatric eye issues that may require surgical intervention:
Strabismus (Crossed or Misaligned Eyes)
Strabismus is a condition where the eyes do not align properly, causing one or both eyes to turn inward, outward, upward, or downward. Left untreated, strabismus can lead to problems with depth perception and potentially result in amblyopia (lazy eye). Surgery is typically performed to adjust the eye muscles when spectacle correction has not met treatment goal, helping to align the eyes correctly and improve both vision and appearance.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
While amblyopia itself is often treated with corrective glasses or occlusion treatment (patch, dicoptic therapy, atropine penalization), in some cases, surgery may be necessary if an underlying condition, such as strabismus or droopy eyelids (ptosis), is causing the amblyopia.
Ptosis (Drooping Eyelids)
Ptosis occurs when the upper eyelid droops over the eye – particularly the Iris, potentially obstructing vision. Most often, vision-affecting ptosis occurs congenitally. If the drooping eyelid interferes with vision or impacts the child’s ability to see clearly, surgical intervention may be needed to lift the eyelid to its proper position.
Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction (Blocked Tear Ducts)
Blocked tear ducts are common in infants and young children, often leading to excessive tearing and recurrent eye infections. While many cases resolve on their own as the child grows, persistent blockages may require a minor surgical procedure to open the duct and restore proper tear drainage.
Eye Injuries
Trauma to the eye, such as lacerations, foreign object penetration, or blunt injuries, may also require surgical repair. Prompt surgical treatment can help preserve eye structure and functionality while minimizing long-term complications. When emergent injuries occur, our doctors and the Conestoga Eye team make sure both the child and the child’s support system know what to expect and the pace of intervention.
Each child and condition are unique, and our team is here to guide you through every step of the process with care and expertise. Surgical options are often highly effective in treating these conditions and can lead to significant improvements in vision and quality of life.
Preparing for Your Child's Surgery
Before surgery, you will have a full medical eye exam and evaluation with Dr. Silbert, our founder and skilled pediatric ophthalmologist. During this visit, Dr. Silbert will examine your child’s eyes and discuss the surgical procedure, providing clear explanations tailored to your child’s condition. This is also an opportunity to ask any questions or address concerns you may have, ensuring that you feel confident and informed.
After speaking with Dr. Silbert, you will meet with Julie, our surgery scheduler. She will review again what Dr. Silbert went over, answer any questions you think of after your visit and before the surgery, and coordinate with you, the pediatrician, and the surgery center to make sure your child’s surgery runs smoothly.
Tips for Preparing Your Child Emotionally
Preparing your child emotionally for surgery is just as important as medical preparation, and there are several steps you can take to help them feel calm and secure throughout the process.
One of the most important things you can do is talk to your child calmly and positively. Children often pick up on the emotions of their caregivers, so remaining composed and encouraging can create an atmosphere of reassurance.
It is also vital to explain the process in terms that are appropriate for your child’s age and developmental level. Younger children may benefit from simple phrases like, “The doctors will use special tools to help your eyes work better,” while older children might ask for more details. Use examples or stories that make the unfamiliar more relatable, and be sure to emphasize that the medical team’s job is to help them feel better and stay healthy.
On surgery day, bring a familiar comfort item, like a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or toy. These items remind your child of home and serve as a tangible source of comfort in an unfamiliar environment. This can help ease your child’s worries, creating a sense of stability and safety during this important time.
Many of the surgery centers Dr. Silbert does surgery at have the option to tour the facility with your child before their procedure. If you are interested in this option, please let Julie know.
What Happens on the Day of Surgery
Upon arrival at the facility, you and your child will be greeted by friendly staff who will guide you through the check-in process. This is often the time when you’ll verify any final details, such as your child’s medical history and any necessary paperwork. Once checked in, you and your child will be taken to a preoperative area. Here, a team of nurses and anesthesiologists will prepare your child for surgery and answer any last-minute questions.
Pediatric eye surgeries are typically brief, often ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the specific procedure. The team will keep you informed about the expected time frame so you know what to anticipate. While you wait, you may stay in a designated area where staff will provide updates if needed.
This structured, caring approach is designed to make surgery day as smooth and reassuring as possible for both you and your child. The surgical team’s goal is to provide expert care in a safe, comfortable environment, supporting your family every step of the way.
Immediate Post-Operative Care
Once the surgery is complete, your child will be transferred to the recovery room, where the post-operative care process begins. Parents are generally allowed to join their child in the recovery room quickly, as well. Here, specialized nursing staff will closely monitor your child as they wake up from anesthesia.
It is normal for children to experience mild discomfort or drowsiness immediately after surgery. This may include sensations of grogginess, some degree of soreness, or minor irritability due to the lingering effects of anesthesia. Some children may experience temporary blurry vision or difficulty focusing. All of these side effects are expected and typically resolve within a short period as your child begins to recover.
Dr. Silbert will provide clear instructions on pain management, including the use of medication if necessary, and detailed guidance for home care after discharge. Additionally, to protect the surgical site, your child may have a small protective patch, gauze, or bandage in place.
Long-term Outcomes & Follow-up Care
Regular follow-up care after surgery is a critical part of ensuring your child’s long-term vision health and overall recovery. These check-ups allow Dr. Silbert and the Conestoga Eye team to carefully monitor the healing process and address any concerns that may arise.
During follow-up visits, your child’s vision and eye alignment will be assessed to ensure the best possible outcomes. Regular appointments also provide an opportunity to fine-tune any additional treatments or therapies your child might need for optimal results.
At Conestoga Eye, we understand that regular check-ups not only safeguard surgical outcomes but also provide parents with peace of mind, knowing their child is receiving the highest standard of care. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing a compassionate and thorough evaluation at every stage of recovery. By working closely with you and your family, we aim to create a supportive and reassuring environment during post-surgical care.
Trust Conestoga Eye for Your Child's Care
Ensuring your child receives dedicated, expert ophthalmological care is essential for their long-term well-being, and Conestoga Eye is here to provide that compassionate support. With experienced professionals and a commitment to your family’s peace of mind, we prioritize your child’s health every step of the way.
Schedule an appointment with Conestoga Eye today and entrust your child's vision care to our specialized team. We are here to guide your family with personalized, professional, and empathetic care at every stage of recovery.
