Hi,
I am 25 and was diagnosed with Duane's syndrome at about 3 years, possibly a bit before that. I never had surgery to correct the problem. I know the information you will get about this syndrome is scarce. I also know that I have benifitted greatly by being spotted so early. I recently went for an eye test and the optician couldn't believe the amount of vision I have, (long sighted perscription of 2 and 0.25. He knew what the syndrome was straight away, but he teaches at a Uni in London. He actually asked if I would be a test person for exams,because I am so well with it. I am legal to drive with both eyes, so it really isn't that bad. I have quite severe restriction of movement in my left eye. This is also hampered with a retractive action when ever I try and look right. This is a little noticeable, but mostly only to somebody who is looking for it. I can do very "interesting things" with my eyes, as my left one only really wants to move up and a little left, the right one moves in all directions, with a little restriction. Bit of a party trick!
What you probably want to know is that from an early age I learnt to move my head instead of my eyes, people don't really notice it any more. I always look a little off centre as the left one wont turn in enough, but it is a subtle problem, not really obvious.
I only need to wear my glasses for reading driving etc now, and have been that way since I was 17. Learning to drive wasn't a problem, and I have been lucky in that this hasn't affected my self view or self asteem, I have boyfriends, friends, I have got my degree, have learnt to drive, normal life really. The best thing for your child is that she was spotted so early, and that with contacts and trendy glasses she wont be a "geek".
I hope your baby is well, and this is a reassuring email. If you have any questions you think I can help with, happy to chat.
Emily