Unable to wear soft contact lenses because of an irregular cornea, dry eyes, or other conditions? Scleral contact lenses may be an option for “difficult to fit” eyes. Scleral contacts are large diameter rigid contact lenses designed to vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). Scleral contacts are usually 16-18mm in diameter, compared to rigid gas permeable (8-9mm diameter) and soft (14mm diameter). The fluid space between the cornea and back surface of the scleral lens creates clear and comfortable vision to those who otherwise cannot wear contact lenses.
Are you a good candidate for Scleral lenses?
A comprehensive eye examination, a special map of the cornea using a Topographer and anterior Optical Coherence Tomographer, and consultation with one of our doctors will determine if you are a good candidate.
Who benefits from scleral lenses?
- Keratoconus: Patients with keratoconus do not have a uniformly thick and curved corneal surface. Scleral lenses vault over the cornea instead of touching, so they are a great option for those with keratoconus and/or post cornea transplant.
- Corneal Transplant: Patients that have needed a corneal transplant do not have a uniformly thick and curved corneal surface. Scleral lenses vault over the cornea instead of touching, so they are a great option for those post corneal transplant surgery.
- Dry Eye: Soft contact lenses may worsen the signs and symptoms of dry eye, making wear intolerable. Scleral lenses vault over the cornea instead of touching, creating a moisture barrier that prevents evaporation and keeps the eye hydrated throughout the day.
- High Astigmatism: Astigmatism is caused by an irregular corneal shape, which causes soft contact lenses to rotate creating fluctuations in vision. Scleral lenses vault over the cornea instead of touching, so they offer more visual stability and clarity.