Have Dry Eyes? Try Scleral Lenses!

by Mar 4, 2020

Scleral contact lenses are some of the newest and most popular developments in contact lenses.  Scleral lenses have many different design aspects than regular soft contact lenses, which make them an appealing option. For starters, scleral lenses are larger than soft lenses, and are made of a rigid material.  These design aspects allow scleral lenses to arch over the front surface of the eye and rest gently and comfortably on the sclera, the white portion of the eye. Before putting scleral lenses on, the bowl of the lens is filled with a safe fluid that nourishes and lubricates the front surface of eye, making scleral lenses extremely comfortable.  The unique features of scleral contact lenses make them a popular corrective option for many people, especially for those who have unsuccessfully tried regular soft contact lenses in the past. From dry eye disease, to degenerative corneal conditions, to regular refractive error, scleral lenses are delivering clear and comfortable vision to a wide range of people. 

 

Dry Eye Disease and Scleral Lenses

Many people who suffer from moderate to severe symptoms of dry eye disease struggle to successfully wear contact lenses.  They may experience decreased tolerance and wear time of their lenses, forcing them to take out their contacts after only a few hours.  Others are completely unable to wear soft contact lenses at all because of the increase in their dry eye symptoms. Luckily, scleral contact lenses may be the perfect alternative for those who experience contact-lens related dryness.  The liquid that is used to fill the lenses creates a reservoir of constant nourishment and lubrication, reducing or eliminating symptoms like burning, grittiness, or stinging. Beyond improving comfort, scleral lenses can improve vision by stabilizing the tear film and reducing fluctuations associated with a dry ocular surface. 

 

High Myopia, Irregular Corneas, and More

Beyond dry eye disease, scleral contact lenses can be used to manage high amounts of refractive error, including large amounts of astigmatism.  Many people who require a strong spectacle prescription prefer contact lenses over glasses, because using contact lenses eliminates many of the distortions and visual discomfort associated with thick spectacle lenses.  Not only do scleral lenses help reduce those distortions, but the rigid material of scleral lenses provides stable consistent vision and superior optics, even compared to regular soft contacts.  

Scleral lenses are also frequently used in the management of keratoconus.  Keratoconus is a degenerative corneal condition that causes irregular steepening of the front surface of the eye.  Because it creates an uneven surface, normal glasses and soft contact lenses are particularly effective in correcting vision.  The rigid properties of scleral contact lenses help smooth out the irregular corneal surface and can provide improved vision for those suffering from keratoconus. 

 

What to Expect with Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are specialty contact lenses, which means specific measurements and design considerations go into a prescription.  These lenses are made-to-order and each lens is unique, so finalizing a prescription may take several adjustments and follow-up appointments.  While the fitting process may be longer than traditional soft lenses, the benefits of excellent vision and superior comfort is worth it.  

At EyeDocs Family Eye Care, you will recieve only the highest quality eye exam with our eye doctor in Brookville, Ohio.  Call us at 937-770-1265 or schedule an eye exam appointment online with Dr.Kyle Maxam or Dr. Kara Wampler for your eye exam with a Brookville eye doctor. The next time you need an evaluation for dry eyes or scleral lenses be sure to come to EyeDocs where we always put the care of you and your family first with our eye care in Brookville, OH.

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