Understanding Scleral Lenses: A Comprehensive Guide

Scleral lenses have become a popular option for individuals seeking advanced vision correction and relief from various eye conditions, especially for those who have found traditional contact lenses uncomfortable or ineffective. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what scleral lenses are, how they work, and who can benefit from them.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas-permeable contact lenses that rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye) instead of directly on the cornea. This design creates a fluid-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea, providing a cushion that promotes comfort and hydration while also offering vision correction.

Scleral lenses are especially useful for individuals with irregular corneas, severe dry eye, or those who struggle with traditional contact lenses due to discomfort. Their unique structure allows for better stability and comfort, making them a preferred choice for many patients.

How Do Scleral Lenses Work?

Unlike regular contact lenses, scleral lenses are designed to vault over the cornea and rest on the less sensitive sclera. This design helps to protect the cornea while creating a tear-filled reservoir that keeps the eye moist and provides a smooth surface for light to pass through, resulting in clearer vision.

This makes scleral lenses an excellent option for people with conditions such as keratoconus, corneal scarring, and other irregularities that make wearing traditional lenses challenging. Additionally, they provide superior hydration for those suffering from chronic dry eye.

Who Are Scleral Lenses For?

Scleral lenses are often recommended for patients with the following conditions:

• Keratoconus: A progressive condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape, resulting in distorted vision. Scleral lenses can provide the necessary coverage and correction for this irregular corneal shape.
• Severe Dry Eye: Patients with dry eye syndrome or conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome often benefit from scleral lenses because they keep the eye moist and protected throughout the day.
• Corneal Irregularities: Whether due to trauma, surgery, or corneal dystrophies, scleral lenses can provide a smooth surface to correct vision.
• Contact Lens Intolerance: For individuals who find regular soft or rigid gas-permeable lenses uncomfortable, scleral lenses may offer a more comfortable alternative.

Benefits of Scleral Lenses

Choosing scleral lenses over traditional contact lenses offers several benefits, including:

• Improved Comfort: Scleral lenses rest on the sclera, avoiding the more sensitive corneal surface, which leads to greater comfort.
• Enhanced Vision Clarity: The fluid-filled reservoir provides a smooth optical surface, reducing visual distortions for patients with corneal irregularities.
• Long-Lasting Moisture: The tear-filled reservoir helps keep the eyes hydrated throughout the day, which is particularly beneficial for dry eye sufferers.
• Protection: Scleral lenses protect the cornea from environmental irritants, further reducing the risk of discomfort or damage.

The Fitting Process for Scleral Lenses

Getting fitted for scleral lenses requires a specialized fitting process. During a contact lens exam, your optometrist will take precise measurements of your cornea and sclera to ensure a custom fit. Scleral lenses are custom-made to suit your specific eye shape and vision needs.

After fitting, you’ll receive instructions on how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses. Regular follow-up appointments will ensure that your lenses continue to fit well and provide optimal vision and comfort.

Are Scleral Lenses Right for You?

If you have struggled with other forms of vision correction or suffer from conditions like keratoconus or dry eye, scleral lenses may be the solution for you. These lenses provide long-lasting comfort, superior vision correction, and relief for many eye conditions.

Book Your Scleral Lens Consultation at G&G Eye Doctors

At G&G Eye Doctors, we specialize in fitting scleral lenses for patients with a wide range of eye conditions. If you’re ready to explore whether scleral lenses are the right choice for you, schedule a consultation today.