For people with challenging vision conditions such as keratoconus and severe dry eye syndrome, finding the right contact lenses can be difficult. Luckily, advances in technology have led to the development of scleral lenses, which offer several benefits compared to traditional contact lenses.
Scleral lenses are large-diameter contact lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye. In this blog, we’ll share some of the benefits of wearing scleral lenses.
What are scleral lenses?
Scleral lenses are special contact lenses that are slightly larger than regular ones. Instead of sitting directly on your cornea, they vault over it and rest on the white part of your eye, called the sclera. This creates a small, fluid-filled space that cushions and protects your eye, making them more comfortable to wear—especially if you have an irregular cornea, keratoconus, or chronic dry eye.
Because scleral lenses are custom-made for each person, they fit securely and provide clear, stable vision. For many people who have struggled with traditional contacts, scleral contact lenses can dramatically improve their comfort and quality of life.
Benefits of scleral contact lenses
If you’re wondering if scleral lenses are right for you, here are some benefits to consider:
Enhanced comfort
Scleral lenses are customized to fit the unique shape of your eye, giving you a secure, comfortable fit all day long. Because they rest on the white part of your eye instead of directly on the cornea, they reduce the irritation and rubbing that can happen with regular contacts. Many people who struggled with discomfort in traditional lenses find scleral lenses feel noticeably better.
Relief from dry eye
The small fluid-filled space between your eye and the lens keeps your eyes continuously hydrated, which is a huge relief if you deal with chronic dry eye. Scleral lenses are also made from oxygen-permeable materials that let your eyes “breathe,” helping to prevent dryness and irritation throughout the day.
Improved vision
Scleral lenses create a smooth, even surface over your cornea, which can make your vision sharper and clearer, especially for those with keratoconus, scarring, or other corneal irregularities. Because they sit on the sclera rather than the cornea, they also reduce some of the distortions that traditional contacts might cause.
Are scleral lenses right for you?
Scleral lenses may be a great option if you:
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Have challenging vision conditions like keratoconus or irregular corneas
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Suffer from chronic dry eye or discomfort with regular contact lenses
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Want clearer, more stable vision than traditional contacts provide
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Need a custom fit to improve comfort and reduce eye irritation
Your eye doctor can help determine if scleral lenses are the right choice for your lifestyle, vision needs, and eye health.
Clear vision and comfort for unique eyes
Scleral lenses are a highly effective and comfortable option for people with challenging vision conditions. They offer superior vision correction, maximum comfort, and protection for the cornea.
If you’re in the Blue Island area and want to learn more about scleral lenses, book a contact lens exam with us today. We can help you determine if these lenses are right for you and ensure you get the best possible vision and comfort for your needs.
