Welcome to the second installment of our three-part series on the fascinating role of scleral contact lenses in eyecare. In our first post we talked about the who, the what, and the why of scleral contact lenses. In this post, we’ll explore the groundbreaking technology behind impression-based scleral lenses, such as EyePrintPRO, which provide a custom fit using an exact mold of your eye. In the next and final article, we’ll dive into how scleral lenses can be paired with aberrometry technology, like Ovitz custom wavefront-guided lenses, to correct higher-order aberrations and deliver exceptional visual clarity for even the most challenging vision conditions.
Introduction: For many patients with complex eye conditions, achieving a perfect fit with traditional contact lenses can be challenging, our specialty contact lens clinic can help. Impression-based scleral contact lenses, such as those designed through the EyePrintPRO system, have revolutionized the field by offering fully customized lenses based on an exact impression of the patient’s eye. This innovative technology ensures unparalleled comfort, superior vision correction, and precise fitting for those with irregular corneas and other challenging vision and corneal issues. The team at our optometry clinic is one of the only providers of EyePrintPRO prosthetic contact lenses in all of Western Canada, and have flown people in internationally to train our doctors.
What Are Impression-Based Scleral Lenses?
Impression-based scleral lenses represent the next step in contact lens customization. Unlike standard scleral lenses, which are fit based on corneal measurements and may require multiple trial lenses, these lenses are designed from a direct mold of the eye’s surface. This mold captures every unique contour, enabling the creation of a lens that perfectly conforms to the shape of the eye, regardless of its complexity.
How Does the Impression Process Work?
The process begins with a specialized impression material that is gently applied to the surface of the eye. This material takes a detailed mold of the entire ocular surface, capturing even the smallest irregularities. The mold is then sent to a lab, where cutting-edge technology is used to create a custom scleral lens tailored to the exact specifications of the patient’s eye.
Benefits of Impression-Based Lenses:
- Perfect Fit for Irregular Corneas: Patients with conditions like advanced keratoconus, severe dry eye, or post-surgical irregularities often struggle to find comfortable and effective lenses. The impression-based design ensures that the lens conforms exactly to the eye’s shape, providing a secure fit.
- Unmatched Comfort: By precisely matching the contours of the eye, these lenses reduce pressure points and irritation, resulting in significantly improved comfort, even for those with sensitive eyes or severe corneal conditions.
- Superior Vision Correction: The custom fit and liquid-filled vault eliminate the optical irregularities that can distort vision, providing sharp and clear visual acuity even in complex cases.
- Enhanced Stability: The exact fit of the lens ensures stability throughout the day, reducing lens movement and improving consistency in vision.
Who Can Benefit?
Impression-based scleral lenses are ideal for patients who have struggled to find a comfortable and effective vision solution with traditional lenses. Conditions that can be effectively managed with these lenses include:
- Severe Keratoconus or Corneal Ectasia: For patients with highly irregular corneas that are difficult to fit with standard lenses.
- Post-Corneal Surgery: Including patients who have had corneal transplants or refractive surgeries like LASIK and now have irregular corneal surfaces.
- Ocular Surface Disease: Patients with severe dry eye, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, or ocular cicatricial pemphigoid can benefit from the lens’ ability to provide a smooth optical surface and continuous hydration.
Fitting Process and Technology
The EyePrintPRO system is one of the leading technologies used for creating impression-based scleral lenses. After the impression is taken, it is scanned to generate a 3D model of the eye. This model is then used to fabricate a fully customized lens that fits the exact contours of the eye. This technology allows for a level of precision that is simply not possible with traditional fitting methods, particularly for patients with extremely irregular corneas or complex conditions.
Success Stories
Many patients who have turned to impression-based scleral lenses have experienced life-changing results. Individuals who previously struggled with uncomfortable lenses, poor vision, or irritation now report significantly improved vision quality and comfort. The highly customized design makes a profound difference in both daily visual performance and overall eye health.
Additional Training and Care at Prpic Eyecare Centre
Prpic Eyecare Centre is one of the only clinics in British Columbia and Canada to offer impression-based scleral lenses. Our doctors have undergone specialized training to perform these advanced fittings, ensuring the highest level of care and precision for our patients. We are committed to using the latest technologies to deliver optimal vision solutions for even the most challenging cases.
Caring for Impression-Based Scleral Lenses
Like all scleral lenses, impression-based lenses require proper care and handling to ensure their longevity and the health of the eyes. Here are some key tips for maintaining your lenses:
- Daily Cleaning: Use the recommended cleaning solution to gently clean your lenses at the end of each day. This removes protein deposits and debris, ensuring a clean, clear surface.
- Lens Storage: Store your lenses in a disinfecting solution overnight to keep them hydrated and free from contaminants.
- Proper Handling: Be careful when inserting and removing your lenses to avoid scratching or damaging the delicate surface. Your eye care provider will guide you on the best techniques.
- Regular Check-Ups: Periodic follow-ups with your eye care provider are essential to monitor eye health and ensure that the lenses continue to fit properly as your eye’s condition may change over time.
Conclusion
Impression-based scleral contact lenses, like those made using EyePrintPRO technology, offer a breakthrough solution for individuals with complex vision and corneal conditions. By creating a custom lens based on an exact mold of the eye, patients can experience unprecedented comfort, vision clarity, and stability. If you have struggled to find the right contact lenses, consider exploring impression-based scleral lenses at Prpic Eyecare Centre. Our team is committed to delivering personalized, cutting-edge solutions to meet your unique vision needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how this innovative technology can enhance your quality of life.
I hope this article has given you a deeper understanding of the advanced technology behind impression-based scleral lenses like EyePrint and their ability to provide a truly custom fit. Whether you’re managing conditions like keratoconus, severe dry eye, or other corneal challenges, these lenses offer a precise, comfortable solution. For more information on how Prpic Eyecare Centre can help optimize your ocular health with personalized scleral lens options, call 604-337-2575 or email us at info@prpiceyecare.com.
