Pseudostrabismus is when your child’s eyes look misaligned (crossed), but really they are not. It is common in babies, and is often due to a wide bridge of a baby’s nose. This can make the eyes appear crossed.

You can tell if the eyes are really crossed by looking at a flash photo of the child. With pseudostrabismus, light will reflect at the same place in both eyes. If the eyes are truly crossed, light will reflect in a different place in each eye.

Pseudostrabismus does not affect vision, and goes away as the child grows. However, real crossed eyes, called strabismus, are a problem. If not treated, the child will not develop normal vision.

If you have any questions about your child’s eyes or vision, speak with your ophthalmologist. They are committed to protecting your child’s sight.