If you’ve ever found yourself squinting at the text on your phone or struggling with dry eyes from your regular contacts, you might be curious about alternative options for vision correction. Enter scleral contact lenses, a unique type of contact that might just be the game-changer you’re looking for.
What Exactly Are Scleral Contact Lenses?
Scleral lenses are not your typical contact lenses. They are larger in diameter and designed to vault over the entire corneal surface of your eye. Unlike regular contacts that rest directly on the cornea, scleral lenses sit on the white part of your eye, known as the sclera—hence the name.
These lenses have a distinctive design; they are like a tiny, clear dome filled with saline that covers your eye. This design not only helps manage severe eye conditions but also provides unmatched comfort for certain eye issues. So, if regular contacts are uncomfortable, or your eyes are too sensitive for them, sclerals could be your ticket to clear, comfortable vision.
How Do Scleral Lenses Differ from Regular Contact Lenses?
- Size: The most noticeable difference is their size. Scleral lenses are larger, which helps distribute pressure more evenly and leads to increased comfort.
- Fit: They are custom-fitted to each individual’s eyes. This personalized fitting, along with their larger size and unique placement on the eye, can offer a more stable and comfortable fit, particularly for those with irregular corneas.
- Moisture Retention: Scleral lenses are champions at retaining moisture. The space between the lens and the cornea holds a fluid reservoir that keeps the eyes hydrated longer, which is a huge benefit for those suffering from dry eye syndrome.
- Vision Correction: These lenses are excellent at correcting more severe forms of astigmatism, as well as other corneal irregularities and conditions, such as keratoconus, where the cornea thins and begins to bulge outward into a cone shape.
Who Would Benefit Most from Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are particularly beneficial for people with:
- Keratoconus: As mentioned earlier, sclerals can handle the irregular cornea shape better than standard contacts.
- Severe Dry Eyes: Those who suffer from dry eye syndrome might find scleral lenses more comfortable, as they help maintain a hydrating tear reservoir.
- Post-surgical needs: Patients who have undergone corneal transplants or other surgeries often find scleral lenses to be more comfortable and vision-correcting than standard options.
Things to Consider
While scleral lenses offer many benefits, they also come with a bit of a learning curve. They require specific handling and care due to their size and the need for saline filling. Your eye care specialist will guide you through the process of inserting, removing, and maintaining these lenses.
In conclusion, scleral contact lenses are a fantastic option for those who haven’t found success with regular contacts, or have specific eye conditions that make traditional lenses a no-go. They might seem a bit daunting at first, but the vision benefits and comfort could make them worth your while.
If you’re curious about whether scleral lenses might be right for you, why not make an appointment with us at In Focus? We’re here to help you explore all your options and find the best solution for your eyes and lifestyle. Let’s bring everything into focus – together!
