What Are the Benefits of Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are a specialized type of contact lens that have become increasingly popular in recent years. Unlike traditional soft contact lenses that rest on the cornea, scleral lenses are designed to vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. This unique design provides a number of benefits for individuals with various vision problems and eye conditions.

Understanding Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are a type of rigid gas-permeable (RGP) contact lens that are significantly larger in diameter than traditional contact lenses. While standard contact lenses typically range from 12-14 millimeters in diameter, scleral lenses can measure between 14-22 millimeters.

The key difference is that scleral lenses do not rest directly on the cornea, but instead, they vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera, which is the white part of the eye. This unique design creates a fluid-filled space between the lens and the cornea, known as the "tear reservoir.” This tear reservoir serves several important functions, including:
 

•  Corneal Hydration: The fluid-filled space helps to keep the cornea hydrated and protected, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with dry eye syndrome or other corneal conditions.
•  Vision Correction: The tear reservoir can help to correct refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, by creating a smooth, uniform surface over the cornea.
• Comfort: The larger diameter and scleral resting design of these lenses can provide a more comfortable and stable fit, especially for individuals with irregular corneal shapes or other eye conditions.

Conditions and Vision Problems Treated by Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are versatile and can be used to treat a wide range of vision problems and eye conditions, including:
 

•  Irregular Corneas: Conditions such as keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration, and post-refractive surgery complications can cause the cornea to become irregularly shaped, which can lead to distorted vision. Scleral lenses can help to correct these irregularities and improve visual acuity.
•  Dry Eye Syndrome: The tear reservoir created by scleral lenses can help to keep the cornea hydrated and protected, making them an effective treatment option for individuals with dry eye syndrome.
•  Post-Surgical Complications: Individuals who have undergone certain eye surgeries, such as corneal transplants or refractive procedures, may experience vision problems or discomfort. Scleral lenses can provide a comfortable and effective solution in these cases.
• Ocular Surface Diseases: Conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome, ocular graft-versus-host disease, and other ocular surface diseases can cause significant discomfort and vision problems. Scleral lenses can help to protect the cornea and improve the overall ocular surface health.
•  High Refractive Errors: Individuals with high degrees of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism may find that scleral lenses provide better visual acuity and comfort compared to traditional contact lenses or eyeglasses.

The Benefits of Wearing Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses offer a range of benefits that can significantly improve your visual experience and overall eye health. The unique design of scleral lenses, which vaults over the entire corneal surface, can help to correct a wide range of refractive errors, including irregular astigmatism, keratoconus, and post-surgical complications. This can result in clearer, sharper vision for many individuals.

The larger diameter and scleral resting design of these lenses can provide a more comfortable and stable fit, especially for individuals with irregular corneal shapes or other eye conditions. The fluid-filled space between the lens and the cornea can also help to alleviate discomfort and irritation. The tear reservoir created by scleral lenses can also help to keep the cornea hydrated and protected, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with dry eye syndrome or other corneal conditions. This can help to prevent further damage and promote healing.
 

By providing clearer vision, enhanced comfort, and improved eye health, scleral lenses can help to boost your confidence and improve your overall quality of life.
 

How to Get Fitted for Scleral Lenses

Getting fitted for scleral lenses typically involves a comprehensive eye examination and measurement process. Here's what you can expect:
 

•  Comprehensive Eye Exam: Your optometrist will conduct a thorough examination of your eyes, including measurements of your corneal curvature, pupil size, and other key factors that will help to determine the appropriate scleral lens size and design.
• Corneal Topography: This advanced imaging technology creates a detailed map of the surface of your cornea, which is essential for designing the custom-fitted scleral lenses.
•  Lens Fitting: Your eye doctor will work with you to select the appropriate scleral lens design and size based on your individual needs and eye measurements. This may involve a trial-and-error process to ensure the perfect fit.
•  Insertion and Removal Training: You'll receive detailed instructions on how to properly insert, remove, and care for your scleral lenses to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
•   Follow-up Appointments: After the initial fitting, you'll need to attend regular follow-up appointments to ensure that your scleral lenses are continuing to provide the desired level of vision and comfort, and to make any necessary adjustments.

Get Started with Refined Eyecare Optometry Today

If you're struggling with vision problems or eye conditions that traditional contact lenses or eyeglasses can't effectively address, scleral lenses may be the solution you've been searching for. These specialized lenses offer a range of benefits, from improved visual acuity and enhanced comfort to better corneal health and increased wear time.
 

To determine if scleral lenses are the right choice for you, schedule a consultation with Refined Eyecare Optometry. We can thoroughly evaluate your eyes, discuss your specific needs and concerns, and help you decide if scleral lenses are the best solution to improve your vision and overall eye health. Visit our office in Torrance, California, or call (310) 214-0409 to book an appointment today.