What are Scleral lenses?

Scleral lenses are a type of contact lens that can be used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Unlike traditional contact lenses, which sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses rest on the sclera, or the white part of the eye. This provides an extremely comfortable and stable fit for people with certain eye conditions…most patients can’t feel the lenses at all!

Scleral lenses are larger than traditional contact lenses, ranging from 14 to 24 millimeters in diameter. They are made of a gas-permeable material, which allows oxygen to reach the cornea and maintain eye health. Scleral lenses are also filled with a preservative free saline solution, which helps to provide a cushioning effect and create a smooth surface for the lens to rest on.

There are a variety of reasons why someone might choose to wear scleral lenses. Some people have irregularly shaped corneas, which can make it difficult for traditional contact lenses to provide clear vision. Scleral lenses can help to correct these irregularities and provide sharper vision. For some patients it is the only option for clear vision when glasses and more regular contact lenses do not work. Additionally, people with Dry Eye syndrome (link) may find that scleral lenses are more comfortable than normal contact lenses which they cannot tolerate. In Dry Eye patients the cornea, which is dry and irritated is bathed in a beautiful preservative free solution giving complete pain relief with excellent vision.

Scleral lenses can also be used to manage certain eye conditions, such as keratoconus and post-surgical complications. Keratoconus is a condition in which the cornea becomes thin and bulges outwards, causing distorted vision. Scleral lenses can help to correct this distortion and improve vision. Similarly, people who have had corneal transplant surgery may benefit from wearing scleral lenses to help protect the new cornea.

Getting fitted for scleral lenses involves several steps. The first step is a comprehensive eye exam to determine whether scleral lenses are a good fit for your eyes. At Park Vision our team have extensive training to guide you through your scleral journey. With state of the art equipment and a designated “contact lens” buddy to help you through every step we ensure your scleral lens trial will be a positive and amazing experience for you.

If you are interested in learning more about scleral lenses please contact us to see if they may be a good choice for you.