What Are Scleral Lenses?
Unlike standard contact lenses, scleral lenses are larger, custom-designed lenses that rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) instead of the sensitive cornea. This unique design creates a smooth optical surface while holding a reservoir of moisture against the eye, providing exceptional comfort and remarkably clear vision.
What Makes Scleral Lenses Different?
Scleral lenses are custom-crafted to fit the unique shape of your eyes. Because they vault over the cornea instead of touching it directly, they can:
- Provide crisp, stable vision
- Relieve symptoms of severe dry eye
- Improve comfort throughout the day
- Protect the surface of the eye
- Fit eyes that cannot wear traditional contact lenses
Every pair is individually designed to provide the best possible fit and visual outcome.
Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are often recommended for patients with:
- Keratoconus
- Severe dry eye disease
- Corneal scarring
- Irregular astigmatism
- Corneal transplants
- Post-LASIK or post-surgical corneal irregularities
- Patients who have difficulty tolerating traditional contact lenses
- Individuals with high refractive errors not fully corrected with glasses
Even if you’ve been told that contact lenses aren’t an option, advancements in scleral lens technology may provide a solution.
Scleral Lenses for Dry Eye Disease
Patients with severe dry eye often struggle to wear traditional contact lenses because of irritation, burning, fluctuating vision, and discomfort.
Scleral lenses create a protective fluid-filled chamber over the eye that helps:
- Reduce irritation
- Improve moisture retention
- Protect the corneal surface
- Reduce light sensitivity
- Improve visual stability
Many patients with chronic dry eye experience significant improvement in both comfort and quality of life.
Scleral Lenses for Keratoconus
Keratoconus causes the cornea to become thin and irregular, making it difficult for glasses or soft contact lenses to provide clear vision.
Scleral contact lenses vault over the irregular cornea, replacing its uneven optical surface with a smooth one that can dramatically improve vision while providing outstanding comfort.
For many patients with keratoconus, scleral lenses have become the preferred non-surgical vision correction option.
Benefits of Scleral Contact Lenses
Exceptional Vision
The smooth front surface of the lens helps correct vision that glasses or conventional contacts may not fully address.
All-Day Comfort
A cushion of preservative-free saline remains between the lens and your eye, helping reduce irritation while keeping the eye hydrated.
Custom Fit
Every eye is unique. We use advanced diagnostic technology to design lenses specifically for your eyes, maximizing comfort, clarity, and long-term eye health.
Improved Quality of Life
Many patients experience renewed confidence in everyday activities like driving, reading, working on a computer, and enjoying outdoor activities.
What to Expect During Your Scleral Lens Fitting
A scleral lens fitting is more comprehensive than a standard contact lens exam. During your appointment, we will:
- Evaluate your eye health and vision
- Measure the exact shape of your eyes using advanced imaging technology
- Determine if scleral lenses are the right option for you
- Design and fit your custom lenses
- Teach you how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses
- Schedule follow-up visits to ensure the perfect fit
Our goal is to provide exceptional vision while keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable.
Why choose Vision Source for Scleral Lenses?
Finding the right provider is just as important as choosing the right lens. As one of the only clinics in the San Marcos and Seguin area that have the specialty of fitting patients with scleral lenses, we are proud to offer:
- Advanced specialty contact lens expertise
- Customized scleral lens fittings
- Modern diagnostic technology
- Personalized treatment plans
- Ongoing care and follow-up
- Solutions for patients with complex vision needs
We work with patients who have previously been told they are “hard to fit” and are committed to finding the best possible solution for every eye.
faqs
Have questions about Scleral Lenses? We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common queries we hear from patients. If you don’t find what you’re looking for here, please reach out to us – we’re here to help!
Yes. Because the lenses rest on the sclera rather than the sensitive cornea, many patients find them surprisingly comfortable, even if they’ve struggled with traditional contact lenses.
There is a learning curve, but most patients become comfortable inserting and removing their lenses after a little practice. Our team provides hands-on training and support.
Most patients can comfortably wear their scleral lenses throughout the day. We’ll provide personalized recommendations based on your eye health and lifestyle.
Yes. Scleral lenses are frequently prescribed as part of the treatment plan for severe dry eye disease because they continuously protect and hydrate the cornea.
With proper care, scleral lenses typically last one to three years, depending on your prescription and eye health.
Coverage varies depending on your vision plan and medical diagnosis. Our staff can help you understand your benefits and discuss financing options if needed.
Can’t find your question?
Please reach out to us — we’re here to help.
Give us a Call
Are Scleral Lenses are a good fit for you?
If you’re looking for an experienced provider of scleral contact lenses, specialty contact lenses, or custom contact lenses for keratoconus or dry eyes, we’re here to help. Contact our office today to schedule a comprehensive scleral lens evaluation and discover how specialty contact lenses can improve your vision and comfort.
