occlusion therapy

The mainstay treatment for amblyopia, involving patching of the non-amblyopic eye to promote visual development in the amblyopic eye. The sound eye is covered with an opaque patch for a prescribed number of hours per day, forcing the brain to use the weaker eye. Occlusion therapy is most effective during the critical period of visual development in early childhood. Treatment duration depends on the severity of amblyopia and age at initiation. Compliance is essential for successful outcomes.