7 Benefits of Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral contact lenses are large-diameter gas permeable lenses designed to pass over the cornea entirely, resting comfortably on the white portion of your eye known as the sclera. This unique design makes them an ideal choice for many people, including those with sensitive or irregularly shaped corneas.
 

How Do Scleral Contact Lenses Work?

Scleral lenses work by vaulting over the cornea and resting on the sclera, similar to a bridge across a river. The area beneath the lens forms a reservoir filled with a saline solution, which keeps the front of your eye continuously moist and comfortable.
 

The unique design of scleral lenses ensures they do not touch the cornea directly, reducing the risk of corneal abrasions. Instead, they distribute the weight evenly across the sclera, which is less sensitive than the cornea.
 

Applications of Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral contact lenses have a wide range of applications, making them suitable for a variety of eye conditions. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with keratoconus, a condition where the cornea bulges out in a cone shape, causing distorted vision.
 

Individuals with severe dry eye syndrome can also benefit from the use of scleral lenses. The reservoir of saline solution under the lens keeps the cornea moist and lubricated, alleviating the symptoms of dry eyes. Moreover, scleral lenses are an excellent option for people with Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), Sjögren's syndrome, and other autoimmune disorders affecting the eyes.
 

Additionally, scleral lenses are useful for those who have undergone corneal transplants or refractive surgery like LASIK. These procedures can sometimes leave the cornea with an irregular shape, causing vision problems.
 

7 Benefits of Scleral Contact Lenses

The benefits of scleral contact lenses are numerous, but we will focus on the seven most significant advantages they offer.
 

The first benefit of scleral contact lenses is improved visual acuity. Due to their design, scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface over the cornea, improving vision for individuals with corneal irregularities. This can drastically enhance your quality of life, allowing you to participate in activities that you may have previously found challenging due to poor vision.
 

Secondly, scleral lenses offer enhanced comfort. Since they do not touch the cornea directly, they are less likely to cause discomfort or irritation. The lenses also create a reservoir of saline solution, keeping your eyes moist throughout the day. This is especially beneficial for people with dry eyes.
 

Thirdly, scleral lenses provide better stability. Unlike traditional lenses, scleral lenses do not move around in your eyes. They remain stable, providing consistent, clear vision. This makes them an excellent choice for individuals who lead active lives or participate in sports.
 

Fourthly, scleral lenses can drastically reduce dry eye symptoms. The continuous moisture provided by the saline reservoir can provide significant relief for those who suffer from dry eye syndrome.
 

Fifthly, scleral lenses are ideal for people with irregular corneas. Whether the irregularity is due to a condition like keratoconus or a result of surgery, scleral lenses can help improve your vision.
 

The sixth benefit of scleral lenses is their durability. Scleral lenses are made from high-quality, robust materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. This means they often last longer than traditional lenses, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.
 

Finally, the seventh benefit of scleral lenses is their easy handling. Due to their larger size, scleral lenses are easier to insert and remove compared to traditional lenses. This can make the daily routine of wearing contact lenses much more manageable.
 

Where to Get Scleral Lenses

If you're wondering where to get scleral lenses, look no further than Eye and Health. As specialists in eye care, we provide scleral lenses to meet your individual needs. At Eye and Health, we understand that every eye is unique. That's why we offer personalized fittings for all our scleral lenses. We also provide comprehensive aftercare, ensuring you get the most out of your lenses.
 

Are Scleral Lenses Right for You?

Scleral contact lenses offer numerous benefits over traditional lenses. They provide improved visual acuity, enhanced comfort, better stability, reduced dry eye symptoms, suitability for irregular corneas, durability, and easy handling. Furthermore, they have a wide range of applications, making them an ideal choice for many people.
 

Whether you're struggling with dry eye, or have an irregular cornea shape, scleral lenses could be the perfect solution for you. Schedule a consultation with our experts at Eye and Health in our New York, New York, office. Please call or text (212) 228-0950 to book an appointment today.