LASIK Cannot Fix Crossed Eyes (Strabismus): Here's Why

LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism). It does not alter eye muscles, nerves, or orbital anatomy — the root causes of strabismus (misaligned eyes).

Strabismus Causes

• Muscle imbalance (weakness, restriction, palsy)
• Nerve dysfunction (CN III, IV, VI)
• Orbital anatomy (fracture, thyroid eye disease)
• Refractive (accommodative esotropia) — glasses may help, not LASIK

Actual Treatments

• Glasses/prisms: For accommodative or small-angle deviations.
• Vision therapy: Orthoptics for convergence insufficiency, intermittent exotropia.
• Botulinum toxin: Temporary chemodenervation.
• Strabismus surgery: Recession/resection of extraocular muscles — adjusts alignment mechanically.

LASIK may be performed after strabismus is stable to correct residual refractive error, but never as primary treatment for misalignment.