Occlusion Treatment
Occlusion is less invasive than surgery, since it relies on placing an eye patch over the stronger eye. With the good eye unable to see, the brain must rely on the weaker eye to see. Although the treatment does not correct alignment, it can strengthen the vision of the lazy eye.
The child will need to wear the patch for a minimum of two to three hours a day, but most doctors encourage use of the eye patch during other activities. Schoolwork, reading, coloring, video games, and other sight-intensive activities are ideal, since the eye is forced to work harder.
Length of occlusion treatment depends on the child’s age and the severity of the lazy eye. Also, it is up to the parents to follow the instructions, ensuring enough time is spent with the eye patch on.
