At our Specialty Contact Lens Center within Omni Eye Specialists we fit patients in scleral contact lenses on a daily basis. Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas permeable lenses. They offer the same advantages that conventional gas permeable lenses have compared with soft contacts, including:
· Sharper vision
· Greater durability
· Easier handling
· Less risk of complications
They are called scleral lenses because, instead of covering only a portion of the cornea (like conventional gas permeable lenses), these lenses vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera, the “white” of the eye.
Because of their size, scleral lenses are more stable on the eye than conventional gas permeable lenses so they are less likely to accidentally dislodge from the eye. This stability can also make them more comfortable than conventional gas permeable lenses. Scleral lenses provide initial comfort similar to soft lenses, especially for sensitive eyes or irregularly shaped corneas.
What conditions do we treat with scleral lenses?
· Keratoconus
· Corneal transplants
· Corneal ectasias and irregularities
· Post radial keratology (RK) surgery
· Post LASIK
· Corneal trauma
· High amounts of astigmatism
· Moderate to severe dry eye
· Aphakia
If you are interested in scleral contact lenses, the first step is to call us to schedule a complete eye exam. A full assessment of your condition and ocular health is necessary to determine the best option for you.