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Many contact lens wearers may need to transition from soft contacts due to discomfort or poor visual clarity. Scleral lenses can provide relief and improved vision for individuals who develop dry eye disease and/or corneal irregularities.
Scleral lenses are large diameter, oxygen-permeable contact lenses designed to rest on the sclera, the tough, white outer layer that forms the eye’s protective wall. Unlike traditional contact lenses, which sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses vault over it entirely. The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped front layer of the eye that covers the pupil, iris, and anterior chamber. Due to their resting position on the sclera, scleral lenses offer improved comfort and stability, particularly for individuals with sensitive eyes or irregularly shaped corneas.
Complications of Long Term Soft Contact Lens Wear
Although soft contact lenses are convenient and widely used, long-term wear can sometimes lead to complications. These may include eye infections, corneal ulcers, oxygen deprivation, and abnormal blood vessel growth (neovascularization). If left unaddressed, such issues can damage the cornea and even result in permanent vision loss. That’s why protecting this delicate tissue is so important.
Scleral lenses are gas-permeable, allowing oxygen to move freely to the ocular surface, minimizing the risk of hypoxia and promoting eye health. Because scleral lenses vault over the cornea, they exert no pressure, which reduces the risk of corneal damage. Scleral lenses offer an incredible alternative for long-term contact lens wearers.
How Can Scleral Lenses Benefit Lens Wearers?
The unique design of scleral lenses creates a reservoir over the cornea, filled with saline for continuous hydration. Scleral lenses also protect the delicate cornea from irritants, abrasive debris, and mechanical friction from the eyelids.
Patients with dry eye disease or corneal irregularities often experience greater comfort and less irritation after switching to scleral lenses. Because these lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the less sensitive white part of the eye (the sclera), they’re especially indicated for long-term contact lens wearers who may have developed sensitivities or irritation on the corneal surface.
The Scleral Lens Fitting Process
Transitioning from traditional soft lenses to scleral lenses starts with a comprehensive eye exam and consultation with an experienced eyecare practitioner. Using advanced 3D imaging technology, we create a map of the eyes to ensure that your new lenses fit perfectly and don’t place uneven pressure on any part of the eye.
Scleral lenses are custom-made for each patient, so it may take multiple fitting sessions to attain your finalized fit. During each fitting, we evaluate the position of the lenses, their comfort, and their effectiveness in correcting your vision. Based on your feedback, we will make minor adjustments until we are happy with the shape of the lenses.
Learning Essential Scleral Lens Techniques
One of the most significant changes that lens wearers must come to terms with when transitioning to scleral lenses is how to handle and care for them properly. Due to their size and fluid reservoir, scleral lenses require a different approach than regular lenses. Your eyecare practitioner will provide detailed instructions for lens insertion, removal, cleaning, and storage.
Initially, inserting and removing scleral lenses may be unfamiliar due to their larger size. Some patients also take time to adjust to the sensation of the larger lens in their eye. However, within a few weeks, the feeling of wearing scleral lenses normalizes as you become accustomed to the feeling and learn how to handle them.
What to Expect During the Transition Period
Adjusting to scleral lenses after long-term soft lens wear can last between two and four weeks, but this is different for everyone. During the adjustment period, it’s normal to be aware of the lens and feel mild awareness.
Your eyecare practitioner may gradually increase your scleral lens wear time to help your eyes acclimate. Expect several follow-up appointments as your doctor continues to monitor your lenses and your overall ocular health. Let them know immediately if you experience pain, itching, or redness.
Once you’ve fully transitioned to scleral lenses, you should feel a significant improvement in comfort and visual clarity. The protective barrier and hydrating tear-film reservoir promote corneal health, ideal for daily wear. Scleral lenses are protective, corrective, and comfortable. With proper cleaning and storage, scleral lenses can also last for several years, making them a great financial investment in your health.
Scleral Lenses and the Path Towards Improved Vision and Comfort
Scleral lenses offer a practical and comfortable alternative for long-term contact lens wearers who experience discomfort, dryness, or vision issues. By providing hydration and protection, scleral lenses can work for patients with a range of ocular conditions. Contact the Weston Contact Lens Institute to learn more about these innovative lenses. Schedule an appointment to determine if you are a good candidate and initiate the transition process.
