Contact Us
+91 -9891818024
Optic nerve hypoplasia is a congenital condition where the optic nerve does not fully develop during pregnancy. Unlike other forms of atrophy that involve the wasting of a previously healthy nerve, this condition is characterised by a reduced number of nerve fibres present from birth. As one of the leading causes of childhood visual impairment, it requires early intervention to help optimise the child’s visual development, often through a multidisciplinary care team.
10+
years Experience
years Experience
5000+
Patients treated
Patients treated
100+
Countries served
Countries served
NABH
Guided facility
Guided facility
Causes
The exact cause is often unknown, though it has been associated with young maternal age, certain maternal medications during pregnancy, and diabetes during pregnancy. It is not typically inherited.
Symptoms
Reduced vision is usually noticed in infancy, sometimes alongside nystagmus (involuntary eye movements) or a wandering eye. Severity varies widely, from mild vision reduction to significant visual impairment.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves examining the optic disc, which appears smaller than normal. Because ONH can be associated with septo-optic dysplasia, an MRI of the brain and pituitary, along with hormonal testing, is recommended to screen for related endocrine issues.
Treatment — Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy is studied for its potential to support underdeveloped optic nerve tissue and help make use of remaining visual pathways. Results vary significantly by case, and realistic expectations are set after reviewing a child’s full diagnostic picture.
Meet The Team
Our Eye Specialists
Dr. Pawan
Associate Professor, Vitreo-Retina Surgeon. 10+ Years Experience
Retinal disorders, diabetic retinopathy, and advanced retina procedures. Provides diagnostic evaluation and treatment planning for international patients.
Dr.Pallavee
Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist & Eye Surgeon· 26+ yrs experience
Areas of Focus: Cataract surgery, corneal disorders, refractive procedures, and glaucoma management. Provides comprehensive eye care and surgical expertise for global patients.
Dr. Robin
Consultant Ophthalmologist & Eye Surgeon, MD, DO .16+ Years Experience
Areas of Focus: Cataract surgery, corneal disorders, refractive procedures, and glaucoma management. Provides comprehensive eye care and surgical expertise for global patients.
How Stem Cell Therapy May Help
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs), typically sourced from bone marrow or umbilical cord tissue, are studied for their potential to support optic nerve tissue health, reduce inflammation, and help preserve remaining visual function. The cells are administered via a minimally invasive procedure — most often through a retrobulbar or intravitreal injection — under the supervision of our ophthalmology and regenerative medicine team. This approach does not restore vision already lost in advanced, complete optic atrophy, but may help support remaining nerve function and quality of life in suitable candidates.
Reviews
What Our Patients Say
Bunty Singh
Excellent customer service and straight away got some improvement as my eye points stop hurting when i press them so and still on the healing process. Very experienced doctor and lovely people. Happy with it
Aneeket Kushwah
I came from overseas specifically for treatment. The staff not only assisted me with transport but also made the whole experience hassle-free. The medical service was of the highest standard and I was very secure in Delhi
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this suitable for infants and young children?
“Yes, ONH is most often diagnosed in infancy. Our pediatric evaluation reviews imaging and hormonal test results before advising on suitability.”
Is there a cure for optic nerve hypoplasia?
“No — there is currently no treatment that can regenerate or “fix” the underdeveloped optic nerve, and ONH itself does not get worse over time. Management instead focuses on maximising the child’s visual potential and treating any associated conditions.”
Does ONH always occur with other conditions?
“Not always, but it can be associated with septo-optic dysplasia, which may involve pituitary hormone deficiencies. An MRI and hormonal screening are recommended as part of the work-up.”
