In some instances, children present with poor vision in one or both eyes, even when fitted with the best-correctable glasses. These children may have amblyopia or lazy eyes, where the visual cortex (or brain) has not learn to use the eye fully.

This may be because the child has:

1. An uncorrected refractive error (usually high amounts of hyperopia, myopia or astigmatism),
2. A large difference in refractive power between eyes,
3. Strabismus or squint, or
4. Obstruction of the vision by droopy eyelid, cataract, or mass lesion.

Early detection is important. A eye check should be done at age 4 by the family doctor, pediatrician, or ophthalmologist. Eye checks should be done early if a visual problem is suspected (eg. if they appear to have trouble seeing, or if they have a squint, or if there is anything blocking the eye).

Successful treatment depends on how severe the amblyopia is, and the age of the child when treatment is begun. Amblyopia is best treated early (before the age of 4), when the brain is still flexible enough to learn how to use the eye fully. Once the child reaches the age of 7 years, treatment with conventional means may be ineffective.

Treatment usually involves:

1. Wearing of appropriate glasses,
2. Patching or occluding the better eye.

In older children, and adults, neurovision may also help improve vision in the lazy eye.

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