Welcome to the first of a three-part series exploring the the fascinating use of scleral contact lenses in eyecare. In this series, we’ll begin by discussing the benefits of scleral lenses for various eye conditions. In the next post, we’ll dive into the groundbreaking technology of impression-based scleral lenses like EyePrintPRO®, which offer a custom fit using an exact mold of your eye. Finally, we’ll explore how scleral lenses can be combined with aberrometry to correct high-order aberrations using technology such as the Ovitz custom wavefront guided lenses, offering enhanced visual clarity for even the most complex vision issues.
Scleral Lenses— Optimizing your visual potential
The team at our Burnaby Heights Optometry Clinic have invested heavily in training, education, and equipment on being able to provide specialty contact lenses to patients at our clinic. Scleral lenses have emerged as a groundbreaking option for individuals facing a variety of vision challenges. Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses are larger in diameter and rest on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera, creating a smooth, fluid-filled surface over the cornea. These lenses provide enhanced vision and comfort for people with a range of conditions that affect corneal shape and function, making them a versatile solution for many patients.
What Are Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are large, gas-permeable lenses that vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera. The space between the lens and cornea is filled with a liquid reservoir, which smooths over irregularities on the corneal surface, ensuring crisp, clear vision. This design not only corrects vision but also keeps the eye hydrated, offering additional benefits for those suffering from dry eye syndrome.
Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?
While scleral lenses are often associated with keratoconus, their benefits extend far beyond treating this specific condition. They are an excellent option for individuals with:
- Severe Dry Eye Syndrome: The fluid-filled reservoir beneath the lens provides constant hydration, helping those with severe dry eye find relief from discomfort.
- Irregular Corneas: Whether due to corneal surgery, trauma, or conditions like corneal ectasia, scleral lenses can provide clear vision where other lenses or glasses fall short.
- High Astigmatism: Patients with high levels of astigmatism often experience difficulty achieving clear vision with standard lenses. Scleral lenses can correct these irregularities more effectively.
- Post-Surgical Eyes: Those who have undergone refractive surgeries like LASIK or corneal transplants may have irregular corneal surfaces that benefit from the vaulting effect of scleral lenses.
- Corneal Scarring or Dystrophies: Conditions that cause scarring or abnormalities on the cornea can greatly reduce vision quality. Scleral lenses cover these imperfections, restoring visual clarity.
Figure 1. Scleral lenses used to treat dry eye after corneal surgery
Benefits of Scleral Lenses
- Improved Visual Acuity: Scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface over the cornea, correcting even severe refractive errors and corneal irregularities. Many patients report sharper, clearer vision compared to traditional lenses.
- Comfort: Because scleral lenses rest on the sclera, they do not make direct contact with the sensitive corneal surface, resulting in greater comfort, especially for those who have experienced discomfort with other types of lenses.
- Stability: Their larger size ensures that scleral lenses remain securely in place throughout the day, reducing the risk of displacement or dislodgement, a common issue with smaller contact lenses.
- Hydration and Protection: The liquid reservoir under the scleral lens keeps the cornea hydrated, which is especially beneficial for those with severe dry eye conditions or corneal diseases
The Fitting Process
Fitting scleral lenses requires expertise and specialized equipment. The process begins with a comprehensive eye exam, during which detailed measurements of the corneal surface are taken. From these measurements, a customized lens is designed to ensure the best possible fit and vision correction. Patients may need to try different lens designs or sizes, with adjustments made to optimize comfort and vision.
- Initial Evaluation: A detailed eye exam will determine the patient’s specific vision needs, corneal condition, and eye health.
- Lens Selection: A trial lens is chosen based on the eye’s measurements. Different lens diameters and curvatures may be tested to find the ideal fit.
- Customization: Lenses can be customized to suit the patient’s specific needs, including the degree of vision correction required and the level of hydration needed.
- Follow-Up Visits: Regular check-ups are essential to ensure the lenses are comfortable, effective, and maintaining good eye health.
Caring for Scleral Lenses
Maintaining scleral lenses is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to follow a daily cleaning routine to ensure long-term comfort and eye health.
- Daily Cleaning: Lenses should be cleaned with a non-abrasive solution to remove debris and proteins that accumulate throughout the day.
- Proper Storage: Store lenses in a clean case filled with fresh disinfecting solution each night to prevent bacterial contamination.
- Follow-Up Care: Regular visits to your eye care provider will ensure that your lenses remain in good condition and your eye health is properly monitored.
Conclusion
Scleral lenses offer a versatile solution for individuals with a variety of vision challenges. Their ability to correct complex refractive errors and provide comfort, even for those with severe corneal irregularities or dry eyes, makes them an ideal option for many patients. If you’ve been struggling to find the right contact lenses or glasses for your vision needs, consider scheduling a consultation at Prpic Eyecare Centre to explore the benefits of scleral lenses. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized, cutting-edge solutions to improve your vision and quality of life.
I hope this article has provided valuable insight into the benefits of scleral lenses and their role in managing complex vision and corneal conditions. Whether you’re dealing with dry eye, keratoconus, or other corneal issues, scleral lenses offer a tailored solution for clear, comfortable vision. For more information on how Prpic Eyecare Centre can help optimize your ocular health and provide personalized contact lens options, call 604-337-2575 or email us at info@prpiceyecare.com.
