Blog:Who Can Benefit from Wearing Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are an innovative solution in the world of contact lenses, offering life-changing benefits to individuals with specific eye conditions or vision needs. These lenses differ from traditional soft lenses by being larger in diameter and vaulting over the cornea, resting on the white part of the eye (the sclera). This design provides enhanced comfort and improved vision, especially for those with complex eye conditions.
Keratoconus is a condition where the cornea, the eye’s clear outer surface, becomes thin and irregularly shaped, causing distorted vision. Traditional soft contact lenses may not provide adequate vision correction for individuals with keratoconus. Scleral lenses, on the other hand, create a smooth optical surface over the irregular cornea, delivering significantly clearer vision. They also provide comfort and stability, which is crucial for keratoconus patients.
Dry eye syndrome can make wearing traditional contact lenses uncomfortable, as they tend to exacerbate dryness. Scleral lenses, however, hold a reservoir of saline solution between the lens and the eye. This continuous hydration can alleviate dryness, providing comfort and protection for those with moderate to severe dry eye. People with dry eye conditions, such as Sjögren’s syndrome or chronic ocular surface disease, often experience significant relief with scleral lenses.
Certain eye conditions, such as post-surgical corneal irregularities (after LASIK or corneal transplants) or conditions like pellucid marginal degeneration, can cause the cornea to be uneven. Standard lenses often struggle to correct vision in these cases. Scleral lenses, however, bypass the irregular corneal surface and offer a smooth, optically correct surface, leading to better vision and improved comfort.
Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. While traditional lenses can correct mild to moderate astigmatism, severe cases may require more advanced solutions. Scleral lenses are custom-designed to fit the unique shape of each eye, providing precise vision correction for even the most challenging cases of astigmatism.
Individuals who have undergone eye surgery, such as corneal transplants or refractive surgeries, or those who have experienced eye trauma, often face vision and comfort challenges. Scleral lenses are a beneficial solution because they can protect the sensitive eye surface and deliver clear vision by covering irregularities caused by surgery or injury.
Beyond specific medical conditions, many people find scleral lenses more comfortable than traditional lenses. The lenses rest on the sclera and not the sensitive cornea, reducing irritation. Additionally, the fluid-filled space between the lens and cornea can help promote comfort, even for those with generally sensitive eyes.
If you experience discomfort with standard contact lenses, have a complex eye condition, or need more advanced vision correction, scleral lenses may be an excellent option. At Texas State Optical, we specialize in fitting scleral lenses and are ready to evaluate whether they are the right solution for your vision needs. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about how scleral lenses can enhance your vision and comfort.
Scleral lenses are a powerful tool for managing complex eye conditions, ensuring clearer vision and greater comfort for a wide range of patients. Whether you’re struggling with keratoconus, severe dry eyes, or high astigmatism, scleral lenses might be the game-changing solution you’ve been searching for.
To learn more on scleral lenses and if they are right for you, schedule a consultation with Texas State Optical. Visit our office in Humble, Texas, or call (281) 399-4275 to book an appointment today.