If both eyes do not point in the same direction, you're probably squint. Inward-turning eyes, called a convergent squint or "cross eyes", usually occur in young children. A divergent squint, when the eyes turn outwards is less common. Although not necessarily painful, a squint can be a distressing condition. Many adults are concerned about their cosmetic appearance, and nearly four in every 100 adults suffer from some form of squint. They may wish to correct this from a cosmetic angle, but there is also the physical disability that often accompanies this condition; loss of eye-hand coordination; bumping into things when ascending, or descending stairs or kerbs; crossing the street, driving, and playing sports.

Many adults who suffer from squint problems are not aware that help is at hand. The good news is that adults need not suffer. Recently there has been an increase in effective, available treatment.

The principal treatments used are Botulinum Toxin and/or eye muscle surgery. Botox has become 'the injection du jour' as more and more people follow in the footsteps of celebrities to smooth out their wrinkles. However, few people realize that the medical use of Botox was originally for the treatment of eyes that were squint. Today, a simple injection can rectify many unsightly turns of the eyes. This is an outpatient procedure that requires only a few drops of anaesthesia, and takes about 30 seconds. "Botox treatment has made a real difference for many patients. Not only does it help to realign the eyes, it can increase confidence and social skills. It's not just a cosmetic thing, it can affect your job prospects," says Mr Christopher Bentley, a consultant ophthalmologist.