Are You a Candidate for Scleral Lenses? Here’s What to Know

If you’ve struggled with traditional contact lenses or glasses and are searching for better vision and comfort, scleral lenses might be the solution you’ve been looking for. Scleral lenses have gained popularity for their ability to address various vision issues and provide relief for people with complex eye conditions.
 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large, gas-permeable contact lenses that vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera). Unlike standard contact lenses, scleral lenses create a tear-filled vault over the cornea, offering both protection and hydration. This design makes them an excellent option for people with irregular corneas or severe dry eyes.
 

Who Should Consider Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are typically recommended for patients who:

• Have irregular corneas due to conditions like keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration, or corneal scarring.

• Suffer from severe dry eye disease, including those with ocular surface disorders such as Sjögren’s syndrome.

• Experience discomfort or poor vision with traditional soft or rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses.

• Need vision correction after corneal surgery, such as LASIK complications or corneal transplants.

• Have high refractive errors (extreme nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism) that aren’t adequately corrected with standard lenses.
   

What Sets Scleral Lenses Apart

Scleral lenses offer enhanced comfort thanks to their unique design. The tear reservoir between the lens and your eye provides constant hydration, which helps reduce irritation and keeps your eyes feeling comfortable throughout the day.
 

They also deliver improved vision by creating a smooth optical surface over the cornea. This is especially beneficial for individuals with irregular corneas, as the lenses can significantly improve clarity and overall visual quality.
 

In addition to comfort and vision, scleral lenses provide protection for sensitive or healing eyes. Because the lens vaults over the cornea, it shields the eye from external irritants, making them an excellent option for people recovering from eye surgery or those with corneal diseases.
 

Finally, scleral lenses offer a stable fit. Their larger size allows them to remain securely in place, even during physical activities, making them a suitable choice for people with active lifestyles.
 

The Fitting Process

Getting fitted for scleral lenses is a detailed process that requires the expertise of an eye care professional. During your visit to Pupila Family Eye & Ear Care in Lantern Lane, your optometrist will:

• Perform a comprehensive eye exam and measure your cornea.

• Discuss your vision history and current challenges.

• Use advanced imaging to create a custom lens designed for your unique eyes.

• Guide you through lens insertion, removal, and proper care.

Are Scleral Lenses Right for You?

If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort with your current lenses, have been diagnosed with an irregular cornea, or have not achieved clear vision with other options, scleral lenses may be a great fit. Your eye doctor will consider your eye health, vision needs, and lifestyle when recommending the best option.
 

Take the Next Step Toward Clearer and More Comfortable Vision

Scleral lenses offer hope and comfort to people who haven’t found success with other vision correction methods. If you think you might benefit from scleral lenses or want to learn more about your options, a professional evaluation is the best place to start.
 

Contact Pupila Family Eye & Ear Care to schedule your eye exam and discover if scleral lenses are right for you. Visit our Lantern Lane office in Houston, Texas, or call (713) 324-8889 to book an appointment today.