Visual acuity of each eye
Child-friendly symbols and cover tests show whether both eyes see equally well or one has reduced vision.
Visual development and interaction of both eyes
Orthoptic clinic, orthoptics and Plusoptix screening
Our ophthalmologists and orthoptists assess how the two eyes work together. For children, early detection of squints and reduced vision in one eye is especially important while the visual system is developing.
Understanding the procedure
Screening gives an initial indication; orthoptics provides a full functional assessment.
Plusoptix measures both eyes at once from a short distance, helping identify refractive errors, differences between eyes, squints and optical media abnormalities. This quick, non-contact test is well suited to young children.
A normal screening result does not replace an ophthalmological and orthoptic examination. Abnormal, inconclusive or clinically suspicious results are investigated with age-appropriate vision tests, checks of eye alignment and movement, and often a refraction test using drops that temporarily relax the eye’s focusing muscles.
- Screening device
- Plusoptix from measurement distance
- Contact
- Non-contact
- Orthoptics
- Eye position and binocular vision
- Objective
- Preventing or treating amblyopia early
Used where needed
What do we assess in the orthoptic clinic?
We adapt the tests to age, development and symptoms.
Eye position
Cover tests and prism measurements assess obvious and hidden squints at different viewing distances and directions of gaze.
Binocular vision
We test depth perception, fusion and possible double vision in an age-appropriate way.
Eye movement
Eye movements, fixation, involuntary shaking and abnormal head positions can point to eye-movement or neurological causes.
Step by step
From screening to a treatment plan tailored to you.
A calm, playful atmosphere matters more than perfect cooperation on the first attempt.
Background
We ask about pregnancy, birth, development, family vision problems and anything unusual you have noticed.
Non-contact screening
Plusoptix takes a quick first reading from a distance while the child briefly looks at the device.
Orthoptic assessment
Several tests assess visual acuity, alignment, movement and binocular function.
Planning vision correction and treatment
If needed, we use pupil drops. We then discuss glasses, patching, follow-up appointments or further tests.
Understanding the results
Early treatment makes use of the key developmental window.
Amblyopia develops when the brain does not make enough use of one eye’s image during development. Causes include a squint, different prescriptions between eyes, a high refractive error or an obstruction of the visual axis.
Treatment depends on the cause and may include glasses, temporary patching of the stronger eye, other orthoptic measures or, in selected cases, surgery. Follow-up checks monitor visual development over time.
Well prepared
How to prepare for your visit
- Bring your current glasses
- Your child's health record and previous results
- Briefly note any changes you have noticed
- Allow time for possible pupil dilation and reduced near vision afterwards
Frequently asked questions
Clear, concise answers.
My child only squints occasionally. Does that matter?
Yes. Even intermittent or small-angle squints can affect visual development and need ophthalmological and orthoptic assessment.
Is a normal Plusoptix result enough?
No, not if there are symptoms, visible abnormalities, risk factors or medical concerns. Screening cannot replace a full examination.
Why are dilating eye drops used in children?
They temporarily relax the eye’s focusing response, allowing more reliable measurement of long-sightedness that a child might otherwise compensate for.
Medical note
This page cannot replace an eye examination. Your symptoms, history and findings determine which tests are useful and how their results should be interpreted.
Medical basics
Sources and further information.
Related topics
All non-surgical eye care services