Understanding Scleral Contact Lenses: A Comprehensive Guide
Scleral contact lenses are a type of specialized lens we fit at Denison Optical that are designed to help people with certain vision problems or eye conditions. They are larger than regular contact lenses and sit on the white part of your eye, known as the sclera, instead of directly on the cornea. This unique design offers a range of benefits for people with specific eye issues that regular contacts can't address. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about scleral lenses, from what they are to how they can improve your vision.
Scleral contact lenses are specially designed lenses that are larger than typical contacts. They cover the entire cornea (the clear, front part of your eye) and rest on the white part of the eye, the sclera. The space between the lens and the cornea forms a small reservoir of fluid, which can help keep the eye moist, making them especially helpful for people with dry eyes.
Why Choose Scleral Lenses?
There are several reasons why someone might choose scleral lenses over traditional contacts or glasses:
1. Better Comfort for Dry Eyes
Scleral lenses create a cushion of moisture between the lens and your eye, making them ideal for people with dry eye syndrome. They can keep your eyes hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.
2. Improved Vision for Irregular Corneas
If you have an irregularly shaped cornea, like in conditions such as keratoconus or after eye surgery, scleral lenses can help by providing a smooth surface for light to focus on, improving your vision.
3. Protection from Eye Conditions
For people with certain eye diseases or injuries, scleral lenses act as a protective shield, preventing further damage and helping with healing.
4. Enhanced Visual Clarity
Scleral lenses offer excellent vision correction, especially for people with high prescriptions or those struggling to achieve clear vision with glasses or regular contacts.
How Do Scleral Lenses Work?
Scleral lenses are larger than standard contact lenses, which allows them to rest on the sclera rather than the cornea. Here's how they help:
- *Smooth Surface*: By covering the cornea with a smooth lens, scleral lenses create a better surface for light to focus correctly on the retina, which improves vision.
- *Moisture Cushion*: The space between the lens and the eye holds a small amount of saline solution, which provides moisture and keeps the eye hydrated.
- *Custom Fit*: Scleral lenses are custom-made to fit the unique shape of your eye, providing maximum comfort and improved vision.
Who Should Consider Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are particularly beneficial for people with:
- *Keratoconus*: A condition where the cornea becomes thin and bulges, causing distorted vision.
- *Dry Eye Syndrome*: When the eyes do not produce enough moisture or the moisture evaporates too quickly.
- *Post-Surgical Eyes*: If you've had eye surgery, such as LASIK, and have trouble with dry eyes or vision clarity.
- *Irregular Corneas*: People whose corneas have an irregular shape, such as after an eye injury or surgery.
- *High Prescription Needs*: People who need a stronger prescription than regular lenses can provide.
The Benefits of Scleral Lenses
- *Comfort*: The moisture cushion makes them more comfortable than traditional lenses, especially for people with dry or sensitive eyes.
- *Improved Vision*: They offer sharp, clear vision, particularly for those with high prescriptions or corneal irregularities.
- *Protection*: Scleral lenses act as a protective barrier for the eyes, reducing irritation and preventing further damage in certain eye conditions.
- *Longer Wear Time*: Because they keep the eyes moist, many people can wear them comfortably for longer periods than traditional lenses.
How Are Scleral Lenses Fitted?
Fitting scleral lenses is a personalized process that requires a visit to an eye care professional. Here’s what typically happens:
1. Consultation: Your eye doctor will examine your eyes to determine if scleral lenses are right for you.
2. Measurements: The doctor will take precise measurements of your eye and find the initial lens size and shape and evaluate it on your eye.
3. Custom Lens Creation: Based on your eye’s measurements, custom lenses will be created for a perfect fit.
4. Initial Fitting: You’ll try on the lenses to ensure they fit comfortably and provide clear vision.
5. Follow-Up Visits: After you start wearing the lenses, follow-up visits will ensure everything is going smoothly and make adjustments if necessary.
Caring for Scleral Lenses
Taking care of scleral lenses is important to ensure they last and continue to provide the best vision and comfort. Here are some simple tips:
- *Clean and Disinfect*: Always clean your lenses after wearing them with a special contact lens solution.
- *Avoid Water*: Never wear your lenses in water (like pools or hot tubs) to prevent infections.
- *Store Properly*: When you're not wearing them, store your lenses in their case with fresh solution.
- *Regular Check-ups*: Keep up with regular eye exams to monitor your eye health and make sure your lenses continue to fit well.
Conclusion
Scleral contact lenses can be a game-changer for people with dry eyes, corneal irregularities, or other eye conditions. With their custom fit, superior comfort, and excellent vision correction, they are a great option for those who have struggled with traditional contacts or glasses.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lauren Claborn, Dr. Robert Cole Powlison or Dr. Deborah Herron, feel free to contact us. We're here to help you find the best vision solution for your needs!