Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses? Exploring Their Versatility in Eye Care

In the realm of modern eye care, advancements in specialty contact lenses have revolutionized the way we address various vision challenges. Among these innovative solutions, scleral lenses have emerged as a versatile option, offering relief and improved visual clarity to individuals with a wide range of eye conditions.
 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are a type of large-diameter, rigid gas permeable contact lenses that vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). Unlike traditional contact lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses create a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the eye, providing a unique and comfortable wearing experience.
 

These lenses are meticulously designed and custom-fitted for each individual, ensuring optimal comfort, vision correction, and eye health. Their larger size and unique positioning on the sclera make them an ideal solution for various eye conditions that may be challenging to treat with conventional contact lenses or eyeglasses.
 

Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses offer a versatile solution for a wide range of individuals, including those with the following conditions:
 

• Irregular Corneas: Individuals with irregularly shaped corneas, such as those with keratoconus, corneal scarring, or post-refractive surgery complications, can greatly benefit from scleral lenses. These lenses create a smooth optical surface, effectively masking corneal irregularities and providing improved visual acuity.
• Dry Eye Syndrome: Scleral lenses can be a game-changer for those suffering from dry eye syndrome. The tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the eye acts as a constant source of moisture, providing relief from discomfort and improving overall eye health.
• Ocular Surface Diseases: Patients with conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome, graft-versus-host disease, or ocular surface injuries can find solace in scleral lenses. These lenses protect the compromised ocular surface, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.
• High Refractive Errors: Individuals with severe myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism may struggle with traditional contact lenses or eyeglasses. Scleral lenses can effectively correct these high refractive errors, offering clear and comfortable vision.
• Corneal Transplant Recipients: After undergoing corneal transplant surgery, scleral lenses can help protect the delicate corneal graft, promoting healing and providing visual rehabilitation.

Are Scleral Lenses Right for You?

Scleral lenses have emerged as a game-changing solution in modern eye care, offering a versatile and effective approach to addressing a wide range of vision challenges. From irregular corneas and dry eye syndrome to ocular surface diseases and high refractive errors, these lenses have proven their worth in improving visual clarity, promoting healing, and enhancing overall eye health and comfort.
 

If you are experiencing vision challenges or discomfort due to an eye condition, schedule a consultation with an experienced optometrists to determine if scleral lenses are the right solution for you. Visit Colonial River Eye Care at our office in Midlothian, Virginia, or call (804) 494-7400 to book an appointment today.