Ophthalmology
Pediatric Ophthalmology
In collaboration with Children’s Hospital Ophthalmology Foundation, Mass. Eye and Ear provides world-class eye care for children with the full range of eye conditions. A major referral center for children with complex eye problems, we provide the latest and best in diagnostics and care.
Overview
Children can develop many of the same eye problems that are seen in adults, but they often require specialized care. Pediatric eye care includes everything from routine vision screenings to caring for more serious conditions, such as retinopathy of prematurity or childhood cataract or glaucoma.
Led by Melanie Kazlas, MD, our pediatric physicians also treat strabismus, or misaligned eyes, in both children and adults.
When Should Children Have Their First Eye Exams?
Regulations on this vary by state. In Massachusetts, children must have at least one vision screening within the 12 months before they begin kindergarten. Infants and toddlers may require an eye exam earlier based on birth history, family history of eye problems or medical problems that may be suspected to cause eye problems.
A comprehensive eye exam is recommended if:
- The child fails a vision screening
- Parents or providers suspect an eye or vision disorder
- There is a family history of strabismus or other eye conditions that affect children
- The child has a medical condition that is known to have associated eye problems, such as neurofibromatosis, Marfan syndrome, Down syndrome, or other genetic disorders
Meet Our Team
Our specialists evaluate, diagnose, and treat pediatric eye conditions
