Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) in Children: Why Early Treatment Matters
- The Straits Eye Centre
- Sep 19, 2025
- 4 min read
Introduction: Why Early Treatment of Amblyopia Is Critical
Amblyopia, commonly known as “lazy eye,” is one of the most common vision problems in children. It develops when one eye does not achieve normal vision during early childhood. If left untreated, amblyopia can cause permanent visual impairment that cannot be corrected later in life.
In Singapore, early detection through preschool and school vision screenings has improved outcomes for many children. However, parents should remain alert to signs, as not all cases are detected in school screenings. This article explains the causes, risks, and treatment of amblyopia, and why early management is so important.
What Is Amblyopia?
Amblyopia is a developmental condition where one eye does not develop proper visual connections to the brain. The weaker eye is effectively “suppressed” by the brain, resulting in reduced vision, even when glasses are used.
Key facts about amblyopia:
It usually begins in infancy or early childhood.
It is the most common cause of preventable vision loss in children.
If untreated, vision loss may become permanent.
Causes of Amblyopia
Amblyopia can occur due to several underlying conditions:
Strabismic Amblyopia: When eyes are misaligned (strabismus), the brain ignores input from one eye.
Refractive Amblyopia: Unequal refractive errors (e.g., one eye more myopic, hyperopic, or astigmatic) cause the brain to favour the clearer eye.
Deprivation Amblyopia: A physical obstruction, such as cataract or droopy eyelid, blocks vision during early development.
Symptoms of Amblyopia
Children often do not complain of poor vision in one eye, making detection challenging.
Signs may include:
Squinting or closing one eye.
Head tilting.
Poor depth perception.
Frequent eye rubbing or poor hand-eye coordination.
Difficulty in reading or paying attention in class.
Risks of Untreated Amblyopia
Permanent vision loss in the weaker eye.
Reduced binocular vision, affecting depth perception.
Limitations in career options that require strong vision.
Higher risk if the stronger eye develops disease or injury later in life.
Amblyopia in Children: Early Detection
Because children may not show obvious signs, screening is critical.
Preschool eye screening by the Health Promotion Board.
Specialist-led comprehensive eye assessments for high-risk children (family history, strabismus, or unequal prescriptions).
Early treatment is most effective before age 7, but improvements may still be possible later.
Treatment Options for Amblyopia
1. Glasses: Correct refractive errors and help balance vision.
2. Patching therapy: Covering the stronger eye to stimulate the weaker eye.
3. Atropine drops: Temporarily blur the stronger eye to encourage weaker eye use.
4. Surgery: For underlying causes such as cataract or strabismus.
5. Vision therapy: In some cases, exercises may support improvement.
Parental Role in Amblyopia Care
Ensure children wear prescribed glasses consistently.
Encourage compliance with patching, even if the child resists initially.
Attend regular follow-up appointments.
Support children emotionally, as patching may feel uncomfortable socially.
Lifestyle and Prevention
Attend routine screenings at preschool and primary school stages.
Seek an eye check if your child squints, tilts their head, or struggles in class.
Follow treatment plans strictly, as consistency is key to success.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What age should my child be screened for amblyopia?
Children should have vision checks during preschool years and again in primary school. Early detection leads to better outcomes.
2. Can amblyopia be cured in adults?
Treatment is most effective in children under 7, but some adults may benefit from newer therapies. Early intervention is best.
3. How long does my child need to wear an eye patch?
Duration varies depending on severity. Some children may need several hours a day for months or even years.
4. Are glasses enough to treat amblyopia?
Glasses may correct refractive errors but often need to be combined with patching or atropine for effective results.
5. Can amblyopia come back after treatment?
Relapse is possible, especially if treatment is stopped too soon. Regular monitoring is necessary.
6. Does amblyopia always cause a squint?
No. Some children with amblyopia have no obvious misalignment.
7. Can amblyopia affect both eyes?
Yes, though less common. Bilateral amblyopia may occur in cases of high refractive errors in both eyes.
8. Is amblyopia painful for children?
No. Amblyopia itself is not painful, but it can significantly affect visual development if untreated.
Meet Our Specialist
At The Straits Eye Centre, your vision care is in the hands of a dedicated team of experienced ophthalmologists. Each of our doctors brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to delivering thorough, patient-focused care for all ages. Whether you need advanced cataract surgery, paediatric eye management, or treatment for complex eye conditions, our team works together to provide the same attentive care we would want for our own families.
Dr Audrey Pang
Consultant Eye Surgeon
Special interest: Paediatric Ophthalmology, Myopia Control, Amblyopia, Strabismus Trained at the University of Cambridge and fellowship-trained in the UK, Dr Audrey Pang specialises in children’s eye care and adult strabismus. She has held roles at Tan Tock Seng Hospital and serves as Visiting Consultant at TTSH and NUH, offering gentle, evidence-based care for patients of all ages.
Cost, Medisave, and Insurance
Many procedures at The Straits Eye Centre are eligible for Medisave claims under MOH guidelines, and certain insurance plans may cover part or all of your treatment costs. Our patient care team will guide you through eligibility, claim limits, and paperwork, so you can focus on your recovery. For more details, refer to our Medisave & Insurance Guide.
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