Are Scleral Lenses Right for You?

Exploring the World of Contact Lenses

Before we dive into the specifics of scleral lenses, let’s take a look at the different types of contact lenses available. Understanding this will help you see why scleral lenses might be the right choice for you. 

Contact lenses vary widely, mainly categorized by their material and design. Each type has its own set of benefits and challenges, suited to different lifestyles, budgets, eye health, and comfort needs. The two main styles of contact that eye doctors prescribe are soft contact lenses and Rigid Gas Permeable lenses. 

Soft Contact Lenses

Soft contact lenses are a popular choice because they're comfortable and easy to get used to. They're made from a soft, flexible silicone that molds to your cornea and are available in daily, weekly, or monthly disposables. They're also quite affordable, making them a great option for first-time contact lens wearers. However, because they fit so snugly against the cornea, they don’t let a lot of oxygen in, which may lead to discomfort from conditions like dry eyes. They also might not provide the sharpest vision because they’re mass-produced and not custom-made to your exact prescription.  

Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses are known for their sharp vision and durability. These lenses are firmer and made from materials that allow more oxygen to reach the cornea, promoting healthier eyes. They can also last upwards of a year if you follow proper contact care routines. Although they can be a bit uncomfortable at first and are more expensive upfront, they're cost-effective in the long run due to their longevity. 

How Scleral Lenses Work

Scleral lenses are a special kind of RGP lens. They don't just sit on the cornea like standard contacts. Instead, they form a small dome over it and rest on the white part of your eye, the sclera. This avoids any discomfort on the sensitive corneal surface, making them ideal for those with corneal sensitivities or dry eyes. Because the apex of the lens rests above the cornea, patients with conditions like keratoconus or astigmatism can successfully wear these contact lenses. 

Each scleral lens is tailor-made to fit your eye's unique shape, providing precise vision correction and a comfortable fit. Their sturdy design is great for severe vision problems, and they can last for years if maintained properly. 

Why Scleral Lenses Might Be For You

Scleral lenses come with lots of perks, especially for people who haven't had success with other types of contacts. They are extremely comfortable because they distribute their weight on the sclera of the eye, an area that consists of thicker, less sensitive tissue. They also have a reservoir you put saline solution into when applying them that maintains the moisture of your eye, helping to relieve dry eye symptoms and keep your vision clear.  

Things to Consider Before Getting Scleral Lenses

While scleral lenses are wonderful, they do have some downsides. They tend to be more expensive due to their custom design and the detailed fitting process. In some cases they can cost five times the amount of standard contact lenses. They also need regular, thorough cleaning to keep them clear of deposits that can obscure your vision or harm your eye health. Some patients report needing to remove and clean their lenses daily to keep their vision clear. Additionally, getting used to their size and feel might take a little time for new wearers. 

Who’s a Good Fit for Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are particularly suited for those with certain eye conditions that make standard contacts a no-go, such as: 

• Astigmatism 

• Keratoconus 

• Dry Eye Disease 

• Stevens-Johnson Syndrome 

• Sjogren’s Syndrome 

They’re also a great choice for anyone recovering from eye surgeries.