Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

Vision correction has come a long way over the years. From traditional eyeglasses to contact lenses, the options available to improve your eyesight have expanded significantly. While standard contact lenses work well for many people, there are instances where more specialized lenses may be required. Scleral lenses are a unique type of contact lens that can provide relief and improved vision for individuals with certain eye conditions or corneal irregularities.
 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are a type of specialty contact lens that are larger in diameter than traditional contacts, typically ranging from 14.5 to 24 millimeters. Unlike regular contacts that rest directly on the cornea, scleral lenses vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye.
 

How Do Scleral Lenses Work?

Scleral lenses work by creating a fluid-filled space between the lens and the cornea, known as the "tear reservoir." This reservoir helps to smooth out any irregularities on the corneal surface, providing clear and consistent vision.
 

The larger diameter of scleral lenses also allows them to rest on the sclera, rather than directly on the cornea. This helps to minimize irritation and discomfort, as the cornea is a highly sensitive structure.
 

Additionally, the design of scleral lenses enables them to provide a stable and consistent fit, even in the presence of corneal irregularities or changes in the eye's shape. This stability can be particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like keratoconus or severe dry eye.
 

Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses can be a game-changer for individuals who have struggled with vision problems or discomfort with traditional contact lenses or eyeglasses. Some of the key groups who may benefit from scleral lenses include:
 

• Individuals with Keratoconus: Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge, leading to irregular astigmatism and distorted vision. Scleral lenses can help to correct this irregularity and provide clear, comfortable vision.
   

• Patients with Dry Eye Syndrome: Scleral lenses can be particularly helpful for individuals with dry eye syndrome, as the fluid-filled reservoir helps to keep the cornea hydrated and comfortable.
   

• Those with Corneal Irregularities: Whether due to injury, disease, or congenital conditions, individuals with corneal irregularities may find that scleral lenses provide a more stable and comfortable fit compared to standard contacts.
   

• Post-LASIK or Post-Corneal Transplant Patients: Individuals who have undergone refractive eye surgery or corneal transplants may experience vision problems that can be addressed with scleral lenses.
   

• Patients with Certain Eye Conditions: Scleral lenses may also be beneficial for individuals with conditions like severe astigmatism, aniridia (absence of the iris), or certain types of corneal dystrophies.
   

How to Get Fitted for Scleral Lenses

The process of obtaining scleral lenses begins with a comprehensive eye exam, during which your optometrist will thoroughly examine your eyes, measuring the cornea, sclera, and tear film to gather important information about your eye health and structure.
 

Based on the results of the exam, your eye doctor will then select the appropriate scleral lens design and size that best fits your eyes. This ensures optimal comfort and effectiveness. You’ll also receive training on how to properly insert, remove, and care for your new lenses, which is crucial for maintaining both the health of your eyes and the longevity of the lenses.
 

Follow-up appointments are a key part of the fitting process to confirm that the lenses are sitting properly and delivering the desired vision correction and comfort. Achieving the perfect fit may require several visits, but the outcome is often transformative, particularly for individuals who have faced challenges with traditional contact lenses or eyeglasses.
 

Is Scleral Lenses the Right Choice for You?

If you've been dealing with vision challenges or discomfort with standard contact lenses or eyeglasses, scleral lenses may be worth considering. These specialized lenses can provide improved comfort, enhanced visual acuity, and better protection for the cornea, making them a game-changer for individuals with certain eye conditions or corneal irregularities.
 

To learn more about scleral lenses and whether they may be the right choice for you, schedule a consultation with Texas State Optical Mansfield. We will assess your unique vision needs and guide you through the process of getting fitted for scleral lenses. Visit our office in Mansfield, Texas, or call (682) 518-1177 to book an appointment today.