Binocular Vision Service

Binocular vision is the ability for our brain to combine the two images seen by each of our eyes into a single image that is both clear and comfortable. It also provides the ability for us to perceive depth and judge how far objects are in space.

Sometimes it is challenging for our eyes to produce an image that is single, clear and comfortable because of difficulties with our ability to focus on objects (known as accommodation), track objects (oculomotor) or fuse objects (vergence). People who have problems with their binocular vision often have difficulties with reading for long periods of time, focusing on a computer or other electronic device or playing sports. They may report symptoms such as double vision, blurred vision, eye strain, eye fatigue or a dull headache.

In the Binocular Vision Service, we thoroughly examine all aspects of your focusing, tracking and fusion abilities and can treat these problems with lenses, prisms or vision therapy.

If necessary, we can also connect you with other health or education professionals for additional care or support.

Vision issues we commonly deal with at the Binocular Vision Service include amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (eye turn), though we treat other types of binocular vision dysfunction too. Brain injuries may also result in difficulties with binocular vision. Our Brain Injury Service can help treat those.

Amblyopia is commonly known as lazy eye, though the eye isn’t actually lazy and the problem is more with the brain than the eye. Amblyopia can result when one eye’s vision is significantly stronger than the other, leading the brain to rely on the information coming from the stronger eye.

Amblyopia is best treated in childhood, when the brain is more plastic and can therefore more easily be retrained to use the information from both eyes.

Learn more about amblyopia

Strabismus is eye misalignment or eye turn. Though sometimes known as crossed eyes, the eyes aren’t necessarily crossed – strabismus may affect only one eye and can result in an eye habitually turning out, up or down, not just in.

Young babies’ eyes may wander, cross or turn. However, if by six months of age, your baby’s eyes appear misaligned or they seem to have difficulty focusing on objects, they should have a comprehensive eye exam without delay. Contact our Pediatric Service for an appointment. Your child may subsequently be referred to the Binocular Vision Service.

Strabismus is often a cause of amblyopia, so the two conditions may be treated concurrently.

Adults and older children can also be treated for strabismus. If the problem existed in early childhood and has persisted or returned, call us for an assessment. You don’t need to be referred.

However, if you never had a problem with strabismus before and your eyes become misaligned suddenly or over a short period of time, contact your medical doctor immediately or go to the nearest emergency room. The problem may be caused by a stroke, another brain injury or a neurological disorder.