At Insight Vision Center Optometry, we have seen how scleral lenses have changed the way many people with challenging vision conditions experience clear sight. Whether you have corneal irregularities, severe dryness, or long-standing contact lens discomfort, these specialized lenses can help you see more clearly and comfortably.
Scleral lenses are custom-designed to match the unique shape of your eye. By resting on the sclera (the white part of the eye) instead of the cornea, they create a liquid-filled dome that continuously cushions and hydrates the surface beneath. Each lens is tailored precisely to your corneal contours for improved comfort and clarity.
Because scleral lenses rest on the sclera rather than the cornea, they eliminate lens rotation or movement. This means more consistent vision, even for people with significant astigmatism or irregular corneal shapes.
The large, dome-like shape helps prevent dust and other particles from getting trapped under the lens. This makes scleral lenses a good choice for people who work in dusty environments or spend time outdoors.
Scleral lenses vault over the cornea, creating a fluid reservoir between the lens and eye. This shields sensitive or scarred corneas from direct contact with the lens surface.
The dome of fluid reduces friction and dryness, making scleral lenses ideal for people with dry or irritated eyes. Many patients who struggled with traditional contact lenses find significant relief with sclerals.
Keratoconus causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape, leading to distorted vision. Scleral lenses vault over the irregular surface and fill the gap with a fluid reservoir. This creates a smooth refractive surface that can provide clear, stable vision in early, moderate, or advanced stages of the condition.
This condition causes thinning at the lower part of the cornea, creating an irregular shape. Scleral lenses smooth out the uneven surface and provide stable vision where standard lenses often fail.
Scars from injury or infection can leave the cornea with an uneven surface. Scleral lenses mask these irregularities by creating a uniform optical surface over the scarred tissue.
This rare condition causes thinning around the cornea's periphery. Scleral lenses provide stable vision by vaulting over the affected areas.
When the cornea becomes irregular or weakened after refractive surgery, vision can become unpredictable. Scleral lenses accommodate the altered shape and provide clear, comfortable vision.
After a corneal transplant, the eye may have an irregular shape that makes standard lenses uncomfortable or ineffective. Scleral lenses protect the grafted cornea and improve clarity by correcting uneven curves.
Older refractive procedures like radial keratotomy can cause fluctuating or unpredictable vision over time. Scleral lenses help stabilize vision by creating a consistent optical surface.
Injuries that scar or alter the cornea can leave the eye with heightened sensitivity and irregular shape. The fluid layer in scleral lenses cushions sensitive tissue and supports visual rehabilitation.
This autoimmune condition reduces tear production, causing severe dryness. Scleral lenses maintain a fluid reservoir that continuously hydrates the cornea, providing relief when other treatments fall short.
This serious condition can severely damage the ocular surface. Scleral lenses protect compromised tissue and maintain moisture to reduce discomfort.
GVHD can cause dryness and scarring of the eye's surface. Scleral lenses address these issues by providing continuous hydration and protection.
When the cornea loses sensation, blinking and tear production may be insufficient. Scleral lenses protect the cornea and maintain a moist environment.
People who produce very few tears often find that standard contact lenses are too uncomfortable to wear. Scleral lenses provide continuous hydration even when natural tears are lacking.
When the oil-producing glands in the eyelids do not work properly, the tear film becomes unstable. Scleral lenses can stabilize and protect the cornea from chronic dryness.
Systemic autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can affect tear production and cause extreme dryness. Scleral lenses create a controlled, hydrating environment that reduces dryness and irritation.
Autoimmune inflammation associated with lupus can cause ocular surface problems. Scleral lenses help soothe the eye and maintain comfort.
This condition can cause ocular surface fragility and persistent dryness. Scleral lenses provide a protective barrier and continuous moisture.
The large diameter of scleral lenses can act as a barrier against environmental allergens. This helps maintain clearer, more comfortable vision during allergy season.
Traditional lenses may rotate or shift on eyes with high astigmatism, causing unstable vision. Scleral lenses vault over irregular or highly curved corneas and provide stable, clear vision.
Very strong prescriptions can be difficult to correct with standard lenses. Scleral lenses distribute pressure evenly on the sclera, eliminating rotation and delivering consistent vision for extreme myopia or hyperopia.
Eyes that have been damaged by chemical burns often have scarred or compromised corneas. Scleral lenses protect the damaged tissue and support healing while providing improved vision.
This painful condition involves repeated breakdown of the corneal surface. Scleral lenses shield the cornea and reduce mechanical friction from blinking, helping to minimize pain.
When the corneal surface does not heal properly, scleral lenses maintain a moist environment that supports tissue repair.
When the eyelid turns inward, it can cause friction and irritation with standard contact lenses. Scleral lenses sit on the sclera and remain stable even when the lids are abnormally positioned.
Outward-turning eyelids can cause dryness and prevent traditional contacts from fitting securely. Scleral lenses provide protection and stable fit regardless of lid position.
Drooping or excessively mobile eyelids can interfere with standard contact lens wear. The large diameter and scleral support of these lenses help them stay in place.
Any significant eyelid malposition, scarring, or structural abnormality that makes traditional lenses uncomfortable or unstable may be addressed with scleral lenses.
Scleral lenses offer excellent stability during rapid movement and keep debris away from the cornea. They are less likely to dislodge during high-intensity activities compared to standard contact lenses.
Firefighters, police, and military personnel often work in dusty or harsh environments. Scleral lenses reduce the risk of lens dislodgement and protect eyes from airborne particles.
Air circulation in cockpits and vehicles can dry out the eyes. Scleral lenses maintain hydration and provide sustained, sharp vision for extended periods.
Many people experience discomfort or excessive dryness with traditional soft, hybrid, or rigid gas permeable lenses. Scleral lenses often succeed where other lens types fail.
Airplane cabins are low-humidity environments that can make contact lens wear uncomfortable. Scleral lenses maintain moisture and comfort during long flights.
Long hours in dry, air-conditioned environments and reduced blink rates during screen use can cause discomfort. Scleral lenses help maintain stable vision and comfort throughout the workday.
Some people who previously wore rigid gas permeable or hybrid lenses can no longer tolerate them due to comfort, instability, or handling issues. Scleral lenses offer an alternative that many find more comfortable.
The process of determining if you are a good candidate for scleral lenses involves several steps. Eye doctors use advanced diagnostic equipment to map your cornea's shape in detail and evaluate the dimensions of your eye. At Insight Vision Center Optometry, doctors like Dr. Nathan Schramm, OD, FSLS, FBCLA use technology like the Tomey WaveDyn and SMap 3D corneal mapping to create a detailed picture of your eye.
Based on the measurements, a lens is designed specifically for your eye. This personalized approach helps provide a level of comfort and vision correction that standard lenses cannot match.
Follow-up appointments are important because they allow eye doctors to monitor how well your eyes are adapting to the lenses and to make any necessary adjustments to improve both comfort and effectiveness.
Most people adapt to scleral lenses within one to two weeks. The lenses may feel different at first because of their larger size, but many patients report they are more comfortable than smaller lenses once they adjust. Your eye doctor will schedule follow-up visits to help ensure a smooth transition.
Scleral lenses require a specific insertion technique using a special plunger or your fingertips. You fill the bowl of the lens with preservative-free saline before placing it on your eye. Removal involves breaking the suction with your eyelids or a small plunger. Your eye doctor will teach you the proper technique during your fitting appointments.
Many people wear scleral lenses comfortably for 12 to 16 hours per day. Your eye doctor will recommend a wearing schedule based on your individual needs and how your eyes respond to the lenses. Some conditions may require shorter wear times or periodic removal to refill the fluid reservoir.
Yes. Scleral lenses require daily cleaning with solutions recommended by your eye doctor. You should also use preservative-free saline to fill the lens before insertion. Proper hygiene and storage help prevent infections and keep your lenses in good condition.
Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan and the medical reason for the lenses. Many plans cover scleral lenses when they are medically necessary for conditions like keratoconus or severe dry eye. Contact your insurance provider to learn about your specific benefits.
Yes, children can be fitted with scleral lenses when medically appropriate. Pediatric fittings require careful attention to the child's ability to handle the lenses safely. At Insight Vision Center Optometry, Dr. Valerie Lam, OD, FAAO, FOVDR works with pediatric patients who need specialty contact lenses.
