Despite the fact that many of us have heard the phrase, "lazy eye", few people know what being affected by amblyopia means. Simply put, lazy eye refers to a condition that arises in early childhood when one eye fails to work properly in partnership with the brain. As a result of this situation, a growing child becomes increasingly reliant on their stronger eye while images viewed by the weaker eye or "lazy eye" are left ignored. This imbalance not only further impairs vision in the lazy eye but in time can lead to a reduction of vision in both eyes.

Chief among the most important things to know about lazy eye is that early detection and treatment can prevent a lifetime of visual difficulties. When detected in a young child, effective treatment for amblyopia involves correcting eye abnormalities and promoting the use of the weaker eye. Since amblyopia affects one eye and there is typically acceptable vision in the other eye, many parents and children may be unaware of the presence of this condition. This is especially true when the outward appearance of the eyes is normal.

To help ensure your child enjoys optimal vision development, we recommend comprehensive eye examinations early in your child's life.