Scleral lenses are specialized contact lenses designed to address various vision problems and eye conditions. Unlike traditional contact lenses that rest directly on the cornea, scleral lenses are larger and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye. This unique design allows them to provide improved vision correction, comfort, and therapeutic benefits for individuals who may not find adequate solutions with conventional eyewear.
Unique Design and How They Work
Scleral lenses rest on the less sensitive sclera. These lenses are made from rigid, gas-permeable materials, ensuring they maintain their shape while allowing oxygen to reach the eye for health. This distinct fit creates a vaulted space between the back surface of the lens and the cornea.
This space is filled with a sterile, preservative-free saline solution before insertion, forming a continuous fluid reservoir over the cornea. This fluid layer acts as a smooth optical surface, neutralizing irregularities on the cornea and contributing to clearer vision. The fluid also provides constant hydration and protection to the corneal surface, which is particularly beneficial for certain eye conditions. Their stability means they are less likely to dislodge or move, providing consistent vision.
Eye Conditions They Help
Scleral lenses are often prescribed for individuals whose vision cannot be adequately corrected with glasses or conventional contact lenses due to irregularities of the corneal surface. One common condition is keratoconus, where the cornea thins and develops a cone-like shape, significantly distorting vision. Scleral lenses create a smooth, artificial surface over the irregular cornea, which helps to restore visual clarity.
Another condition that benefits from scleral lenses is severe dry eye syndrome. The fluid reservoir beneath the lens provides continuous moisture to the eye, relieving discomfort and promoting corneal health for those with chronic dryness. Scleral lenses are also used for individuals who have undergone corneal transplants or other eye surgeries, as they can manage irregularities and provide visual improvement post-procedure. Conditions like pellucid marginal degeneration, corneal ectasia, and corneal scarring also find effective management with scleral lenses, as they can vault over damaged or irregular areas.
The Fitting and Adjustment Journey
Obtaining scleral lenses involves a specialized fitting process conducted by an eye care professional experienced in these types of lenses. The journey begins with a comprehensive eye examination and detailed measurements of the eye’s surface, often utilizing advanced imaging techniques like corneal topography. These measurements allow for the custom design of each lens, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit.
During initial trial fittings, different lenses are placed on the eye to assess their fit, movement, and the vision they provide. The eye care professional evaluates the tear layer beneath the lens and makes precise adjustments to the lens parameters. This personalized approach often requires multiple visits to fine-tune the fit and ensure optimal comfort and visual acuity. The goal is to achieve a stable lens that provides clear vision and maintains corneal health.
Caring for Scleral Lenses
Proper care and maintenance are important for the longevity and safe use of scleral lenses. Before handling the lenses, thoroughly wash and dry hands to prevent contamination. Insertion involves filling the bowl of the lens with a sterile, non-preserved saline solution.
For removal, specific techniques are employed, often involving a small suction cup designed for this purpose. After removal, lenses must be cleaned daily using recommended solutions to remove deposits and disinfect them. Lenses are then stored in a case filled with fresh disinfection solution overnight. It is important to follow the eye care professional’s specific instructions regarding cleaning solutions and replacement schedules to maintain eye health and lens performance.