Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses are different from soft contact lenses in that they only touch the whites of your eyes (called the sclera). The middle part of the contact lens is vaulted to create a reservoir that fills with your natural tears to create a round area that’s unnoticeable.
These contact lenses can help treat a variety of eye conditions. They are larger than regular contact lenses, and since they only cover the whites of your eyes, they are more comfortable, as the sclera has less nerves in it than your cornea.
While most patients will be a candidate for scleral contact lenses, patients who have certain eye conditions can particularly benefit from these lenses.
Conditions Scleral Lenses Can Treat
Scleral contact lenses can help treat conditions such as keratoconus, which is when the cornea becomes thin and can unnaturally protrude from the eye, which can lead to blurry vision. People who have keratoconus usually can’t wear normal contact lenses, so scleral lenses may be more effective and comfortable.
People who have chronic dry eye can also benefit from scleral contact lenses. Regular contact lenses can dry out the eye by absorbing natural tears. Scleral lenses don’t actually touch the cornea and therefore help prevent dry eye in people who need corrective lenses.
If you have an astigmatism, which can cause an irregular eye shape, scleral contact lenses may also help correct blurry vision where traditional contacts would be difficult or impossible to wear. Our eye care professionals can help you determine if scleral lenses could benefit your eyesight.
Schedule an Appointment With Us!
Learn more about how scleral lenses could help you at Excel Optometry. Call us today at (949) 429-3333 to schedule an appointment with us, or use our contact form to get in touch with our friendly team!