Patching Therapy

Patching has been proven to be an effective method to increase vision in patients with amblyopia where the vision is not as good in one eye. The patch is placed over the “normal seeing” eye (the one with the better vision) to make the “poorer seeing” eye work. Sometimes we do patching for intermittent exotropia or drifting and patching can help with control. Dr. Longmuir may have started patching for many reasons. But we have made some links to help you find the patches.

Patching Therapy has been proven to be an effective method to increase vision in patients with amblyopia. The patch is placed over the “normal seeing” eye (the one with the better vision) to make the “poorer seeing” eye work.

How do I put the patch on? The sticky patch (like the Ortopad brand) should be placed directly on the skin, or if a fabric patch it will go on glasses. The patch is often more comfortable if “tented” so it does not touch the eyelashes. There are several brands of patches and sometimes they come in different sizes. Use the brand and size that is most comfortable for your child.

The Ortopad patches are great and come in sizes. Click below to see the junior, Medium and regular sizes based on ages. You can see the ortopad patches on amazon and also on the Ortopad website.

Ortopad patches for girls over 4 years of age can be seen here.

Ortopad patches for boys over 4 years of age can be seen here.

Ortopad for girls between 2-4 years of age can be seen here.

Ortopad for boys between 2-4 years of age can be seen here.

Ortopad for girls under 2 years of age can be seen here.

Ortopad for boys under 2 years of age can be seen here.

Another brand that is cute or is Seeworthy and their website can be seen here. it does not have sizes. Click to see some designs by Seeworthy for girls. They can be seen here. Other ones are Seeworthy for boys and girls with different themes. They can be seen here.

What if the patch causes skin irritation? Rotating the patch in different directions will help eliminate skin irritation and “break outs”. The patch can be adhered in any direction, just make sure it covers the entire eye. Avoid removing the patch more than necessary. You can also try a different brand of patches. Each type has different adhesives that may be better on your child’s skin. Milk of Magnesia can be used to protect the skin. Apply liquid Milk of Magnesia around the eye in the area where the patch sticks with a cotton ball. Avoid getting the Milk of Magnesia in the eye. Allow it to dry, then apply the eye patch. Before removing the patch place a cool compress over the patch for 1-2 minutes. This helps to loosen the adhesive tape and provide an easier non-stick removal. Petroleum jelly can also be rubbed into the adhesive portion of the patch. Allow it to soak for 15 minutes.