What Conditions Can Be Treated with Scleral Contact Lenses?

Scleral contact lenses are a specialized type of contact lens that have become increasingly popular in recent years. These lenses are designed to provide an effective solution for individuals with various corneal and ocular conditions that cannot be adequately addressed by traditional soft contact lenses or eyeglasses.

What are Scleral Lenses and How Do They Work?

Scleral contact lenses are a type of rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lens that are significantly larger in diameter than traditional contact lenses. Instead of resting on the cornea, these lenses vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye.

Scleral contact lenses work by creating a protective, tear-filled vault over the cornea, which helps to address a variety of ocular conditions. The unique design of these lenses allows them to conform to the irregular shape of the eye, providing a customized fit and improved visual acuity.

The process of fitting scleral lenses typically involves a comprehensive eye examination and a series of measurements to ensure the proper size and curvature of the lens. Once the appropriate lens is selected, the patient will undergo a fitting process to ensure a comfortable and effective fit.

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition in which the cornea begins to thin and develop an irregular, cone-like shape. This can lead to significant distortion of vision, making it difficult for patients to achieve clear and comfortable sight with traditional contact lenses or eyeglasses.

Scleral contact lenses are an excellent solution for individuals with keratoconus. The large diameter of the lens allows it to vault over the irregularly shaped cornea, providing a smooth, uniform surface for light to pass through. This can result in a significant improvement in visual acuity and overall comfort for those living with keratoconus.

Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is a chronic condition characterized by insufficient tear production or excessive tear evaporation, leading to discomfort, irritation, and vision problems. Traditional contact lenses can exacerbate the symptoms of dry eye, as they can disrupt the natural tear film and cause further dryness.

Scleral contact lenses, on the other hand, can be a game-changer for individuals with dry eye syndrome. The space between the lens and the cornea is filled with a sterile saline solution, which helps to maintain eye hydration and reduce the symptoms of dry eye. This can lead to improved comfort, reduced eye irritation, and enhanced visual clarity.

Post-Surgical Corneal Irregularities

Certain surgical procedures, such as refractive surgery or corneal transplants, can result in irregular corneal surfaces that are difficult to correct with traditional contact lenses or eyeglasses. In these cases, scleral lenses can be a valuable solution.

The large diameter and customizable design of scleral lenses allow them to conform to the unique shape of the post-surgical cornea, providing a stable and comfortable fit. This can help to improve visual acuity and reduce the risk of further corneal complications, making scleral lenses an essential tool in the management of post-surgical eye conditions.

Severe Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a common refractive error in which the cornea is irregularly shaped, causing blurred or distorted vision. Traditional contact lenses and eyeglasses may not be able to effectively correct severe cases of astigmatism, leading to ongoing vision challenges.

Scleral contact lenses are an excellent solution for individuals with severe astigmatism. The customizable design of these lenses allows them to be tailored to the unique shape of the cornea, providing a smooth, uniform surface for light to pass through. This can result in a significant improvement in visual acuity and overall comfort for those struggling with high levels of astigmatism.

Corneal Scarring

Corneal scarring can occur due to a variety of factors, including eye injuries, infections, or underlying medical conditions. This can lead to irregular corneal surfaces and significant vision problems that are difficult to correct with traditional contact lenses or eyeglasses.

Scleral contact lenses are an effective solution for individuals with corneal scarring. The large diameter of the lens allows it to vault over the scarred corneal surface, providing a smooth, uniform surface for light to pass through. This can result in improved visual acuity and reduced glare or light sensitivity, which are common issues associated with corneal scarring.

Are Scleral Lenses Right for You?

Scleral contact lenses have become an increasingly valuable tool in the management of a wide range of ocular conditions. From keratoconus and dry eye syndrome to post-surgical corneal irregularities and severe astigmatism, these specialized lenses can provide a customized solution to improve visual acuity, comfort, and overall eye health.

If you are interested in exploring the benefits of scleral contact lenses, schedule an eye exam with Ocean Park Optometry. We will work with you to determine the best course of treatment and ensure that you achieve the clear, comfortable vision you. Visit our office in Santa Monica, California, call (310) 452-1039, or click Book An Appointment today.