What Are Scleral Lenses?

Do you have a refractive error like astigmatism, myopia, or hyperopia? If so, you likely have contact lenses or glasses to adjust your vision. While these are viable, they might not always be the best fit for everyone. This is where scleral lenses come in. 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are contact lenses that are larger than traditional contact lenses. They rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye, rather than the cornea. The gas-permeable materials used to create scleral lenses allow oxygen to pass through the lens to the cornea. This maintains the comfort and health of the eye.

How Do They Work?

These specialty lenses create a space between the back surface of the lens and the cornea. A saline solution fills this space. This helps provide a smooth surface for light to enter the eye, reducing vision distortion caused by corneal irregularities. Since the lenses rest on the sclera, they are more stable than traditional contact lenses. This reduces the risk of dislodgement or discomfort.

Who Can Benefit?

Scleral lenses can help people with various vision issues, including those with:
 

• Dry eye syndrome

• Keratoconus

• Irregularly shaped corneas

They can also be effective following corneal surgery or trauma, which can cause vision problems. 

These lenses can also help people with high astigmatism. Such people may not be able to achieve clear vision with traditional contact lenses or glasses. Individuals with difficulty tolerating traditional contact lenses may also benefit from scleral lenses. 

Because they rest on the sclera instead of the cornea, they may be more comfortable for sensitive eyes or dry eye syndrome. Additionally, they can provide better visual acuity than glasses. This makes them a preferred option for athletes or people who need excellent vision for their occupations or hobbies.

Benefits

Scleral lenses offer several benefits over traditional contact lenses and glasses. Since they rest on the sclera, they are more stable than conventional contact lenses. This reduces the risk of dislodgement and improves comfort. 
 

Additionally, they create a fluid-filled space between the lens and cornea. This can help improve visual acuity by reducing vision distortion caused by corneal irregularities. Scleral lenses can also be more comfortable than traditional contact lenses for people with sensitive or dry eye syndrome. 
 

The saline solution can provide moisture to the eye, reducing discomfort and irritation. Also, they can provide better visual acuity than glasses, making them a preferred option for people who need excellent vision for their daily activities or hobbies.

How to Get Scleral Lenses

Schedule an appointment with an eye specialist specializing in fitting scleral lenses if you want to try them. During the appointment, the doctor will evaluate your eyes and determine if they suit you. If they are, the doctor will take measurements of your eyes and order custom lenses.
 

Once they are ready, the doctor will demonstrate how to put them in and take them out. You will also receive care instructions. The adjustment to wearing scleral lenses could take some time. But most find them cozy and practical for treating eyesight issues.

Conclusion
 

Scleral lenses can be a life-changing option for people with various vision problems. They offer improved comfort, stability, and visual acuity compared to traditional lenses and glasses. 
 

It is crucial to remember that scleral lenses are not a universally effective treatment. They require a customized fitting process, careful care, and maintenance to ensure optimal comfort and visual acuity.
 

For more on scleral lenses, visit Diamond Bar Optometric Center at our Diamond Bar, California office. Call (909) 861-4999 to schedule an appointment today.