The Scleral Lens Fitting Process Explained
Scleral lenses are an excellent option for individuals with conditions like keratoconus, severe dry eye, or corneal irregularities. But before you can experience the benefits of these lenses, it's important to understand the fitting process. In this guide, we’ll explain how the scleral lens fitting process works and what you can expect during each step.
What Makes Scleral Lenses Unique?
Scleral lenses are different from traditional contact lenses in that they cover the sclera (the white part of the eye) rather than sitting directly on the cornea. This design offers enhanced comfort and protection, particularly for individuals with corneal issues or severe dry eye. However, because scleral lenses are custom-made to fit the unique shape of your eye, the fitting process requires detailed measurements and a specialized approach.
Step 1: Comprehensive Eye Exam
The fitting process begins with a comprehensive eye exam. Your optometrist will assess your overall eye health and determine whether scleral lenses are the best solution for your specific needs. This exam includes tests to check your vision, corneal health, and tear production.
If you're a suitable candidate for scleral lenses, your optometrist will proceed with the next steps to ensure a precise fit.
Step 2: Corneal and Scleral Measurements
The next step in the scleral lens fitting process is to take detailed measurements of your cornea and sclera. These measurements are essential for designing lenses that will fit your eyes comfortably and provide the best possible vision correction.
Advanced diagnostic tools like corneal topography are used to map the surface of your cornea, allowing for the creation of a custom-fit lens that contours perfectly to the unique shape of your eye.
Step 3: Lens Fitting and Trial Lenses
Once your measurements are taken, your optometrist will fit you with a set of trial scleral lenses. These lenses allow your doctor to assess how the lenses interact with your eyes in real-time. During this fitting, your optometrist will check for proper alignment, vision clarity, and overall comfort.
It’s common to try a few different lenses before determining the best fit. This step ensures that the final set of lenses provides optimal vision correction and comfort.
Step 4: Customizing Your Scleral Lenses
After the trial lenses have been evaluated and adjusted, your optometrist will order your custom scleral lenses. These lenses are tailored to your specific measurements and needs, ensuring a precise fit. Depending on your condition, your lenses may also include specialized coatings or adjustments to further enhance comfort and vision.
Step 5: Insertion, Removal, and Care Training
Once your custom lenses are ready, your optometrist will guide you through the process of inserting, removing, and caring for your scleral lenses. Proper lens care is essential for maintaining eye health and ensuring the longevity of your lenses.
You’ll also receive tips on how to clean your lenses, how to store them, and how to handle them safely to avoid damage or contamination.
Step 6: Follow-Up Appointments
Follow-up appointments are an important part of the scleral lens fitting process. These appointments allow your optometrist to monitor the fit and effectiveness of the lenses, making any necessary adjustments to improve comfort or vision clarity. It’s also a chance to address any questions or concerns you may have about your lenses.
Regular check-ups help ensure that your lenses continue to provide the best possible performance over time.
Why Choose Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses offer significant advantages over traditional contact lenses, especially for individuals with conditions like keratoconus, severe dry eye, or corneal scarring. They provide better stability, enhanced comfort, and continuous hydration to the cornea. If you’ve struggled with discomfort or vision clarity with traditional lenses, scleral lenses may be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Book Your Scleral Lens Fitting at G&G Eye Doctors
At G&G Eye Doctors, our experienced optometrists specialize in fitting scleral lenses for a wide range of eye conditions. If you’re ready to start the fitting process and explore whether scleral lenses are right for you, schedule a consultation today.