Specialty lenses for hard-to-fit conditions
Scleral Lenses
Specialty lenses for hard-to-fit conditions
Scleral Lenses
Scleral Lenses, Kildeer & Elgin, IL
Scleral lenses are new specialty contact lenses that provide better vision for patients. They can even be customized as bifocal lenses to meet your specific visual needs. Our eye doctors in Kildeer and Elgin, Illinois have had great success in improving patients’ vision with these lenses.
What are scleral lenses?
Scleral lenses are larger than conventional contact lenses and are designed to cover the entire cornea and rest on the white part of the eye (sclera). This design replaces the irregular cornea with a perfectly smooth surface, causing fewer image distortions and providing you with clearer, sharper vision.
To improve comfort and vision, scleral contact lenses are made of a specific rigid gas-permeable lens.
Because of their one-of-a-kind construction, scleral lenses are among the most accommodating options, providing people of all ages with clear vision.
They are ideal for patients with:
- Irregular corneas such as keratoconus (a cone-shaped cornea)
- Ocular surface diseases like keratitis and dry eye syndrome
- Inability to tolerate rigid gas-permeable (RGP) contact lenses and unable to wear soft contact lenses
- Astigmatism
- Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC)
- Post-refractive surgery (i.e. LASIK, PRK)
- Presbyopia
Advantages of wearing scleral lenses
Scleral lenses are a specialized type of contact lenses designed todesigned for comfort and visual clarity provide superior comfort and vision for people with complex eye conditions. Their unique design, which involves vaulting With a unique design that vaults over the cornea and restingrests on the sclera, offersthey offer numerous advantages for many patients: for individuals with various eye conditions:. These lenses not only provide exceptional vision but also enhance comfort:, making them an ideal choice for many patients..
- Enhanced Comfort: Scleral lenses vault over the cornea, reducing direct contact and irritation, making them suitable for those with sensitive eyes or dry eye syndrome.
- Improved Vision Quality: They offer excellent visual clarity, particularly for individuals with irregular corneas, keratoconus, or astigmatism.
- Protection for the Cornea: The fluid reservoir created between the lens and the cornea helps protect against dryness and provides a soothing layer of moisture.
- Stability and Ease of Use: Once fitted properly, scleral lenses provide a stable position on the eye, minimizing lens movement and making them easier to handle.
- Versatile for Various Conditions: Scleral lenses are effective for managing multiple eye issues, including post-refractive surgery complications, presbyopia, and other corneal irregularities.
Schedule an appointment today
If you have irregular corneas, an ocular surface disease, or difficulty wearing traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Contact us today to schedule a contact lens exam and find out if scleral lenses are right for you.
How do scleral lenses help with dry eye syndrome?
Scleral lenses provide relief for dry eye syndrome by creating a fluid-filled reservoir between the lens and the eye’s surface. This cushion of moisture hydrates and protects the cornea throughout the day, alleviating dryness, irritation, and discomfort. Unlike traditional lenses, scleral lenses are larger and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye) rather than the cornea. This design minimizes friction and provides a smooth, hydrated surface, making scleral lenses an excellent option for those suffering from moderate to severe dry eyes, especially when other treatments haven’t worked.
Are scleral lenses worth it?
Scleral lenses are absolutely worth it for individuals who suffer from conditions like keratoconus, dry eye syndrome, corneal irregularities, or other complex vision issues. While they may cost more than traditional lenses, scleral lenses offer unparalleled comfort, improved vision quality, and relief from dryness or irritation. For many patients, they provide long-lasting solutions when other contact lenses or treatments have failed. The customized fit and hydration benefits make them a life-changing option for those with challenging eye conditions, significantly improving both vision and quality of life.
How many years do scleral lenses last?
With proper care and maintenance, scleral lenses can typically last between 1 to 3 years. However, their lifespan depends on factors like how well they are cleaned, stored, and handled, as well as the wearer’s unique eye health and prescription changes. Regular eye exams and lens check-ups are important to ensure they remain in good condition and continue providing optimal comfort and vision. Your eye care professional will guide you on when it’s time to replace your scleral lenses.
What makes scleral lenses so comfortable?
Scleral lenses are uniquely comfortable due to their larger size and design. Unlike traditional contact lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye. This design eliminates direct contact with the sensitive corneal surface, reducing irritation and discomfort. Additionally, the fluid-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea provides continuous hydration, creating a smooth, cushioned barrier that makes scleral lenses particularly comfortable, even for those with dry or sensitive eyes.
Are scleral lenses hard to adjust to?
While scleral lenses are larger than traditional contact lenses, most patients find them surprisingly easy to adjust to. Initially, you may notice the lens size when inserting and removing them, but with practice, this process becomes simple and routine. Since scleral lenses do not directly touch the cornea and create a smooth, moist surface, they are often more comfortable from the start compared to other contact lenses. It may take a few days to a couple of weeks to fully adapt, but many patients report a significant improvement in comfort and vision early on.