Scleral Lenses: A Clearer, More Comfortable Option for Challenging Eyes

If traditional contact lenses are uncomfortable, unstable, or simply aren't providing the vision you need, you may be a candidate for a type of contact called a scleral lens.

At C Lane Eye Associates, we offer specialty contact lens services. Scleral lenses can be an excellent solution for people with irregular corneas, significant dry eye, or other conditions that make traditional contacts difficult to wear.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter, gas-permeable contact lenses that rest primarily on the white part of the eye, called the sclera, rather than directly on the sensitive cornea.

Unlike a traditional contact lens, a scleral lens creates a fluid reservoir between the lens and the surface of the eye. This reservoir can help provide both clearer vision and increased comfort for appropriate patients.

Because scleral lenses are custom designed for each eye, they can be particularly helpful when the shape or surface of the cornea makes conventional contact lenses difficult to fit.

Find more information regarding scleral lenses from the Scleral Lens Edcuation Society.

Who Can Benefit From Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses may be recommended for a variety of eye conditions, including:

Keratoconus
Corneal irregularities
Corneal ectasia
Post-LASIK or other corneal surgery
Corneal scarring
Significant dry eye
Ocular surface disease
Patients who cannot achieve satisfactory vision or comfort with traditional contact lenses

For some patients, scleral lenses can provide a combination of vision correction, comfort, and ocular surface protection that is difficult to achieve with standard contact lenses.

A study referenced by the American Academy of Ophthalmology discusses the benefits of scleral lens wear for ocular surface disease.

Are Scleral Lenses Comfortable?

Many patients are surprised by how comfortable scleral lenses can be.

Because the lens vaults over the cornea and rests on the sclera, it does not move across the cornea in the same way many traditional contact lenses do.

That said, comfort depends on proper fitting, lens design, application, care, and the health of the ocular surface. Scleral lenses are custom medical devices, so finding the right fit is an important part of the process.

Are Scleral Lenses Better Than Regular Contacts?

Not necessarily. The best contact lens depends on the individual patient. For someone with a healthy, normally shaped cornea who sees well and is comfortable in a conventional contact lens, a standard lens may be an excellent choice.

Scleral lenses become particularly valuable when conventional lenses are unable to provide adequate vision, comfort, stability, or ocular surface support.

What Is a Scleral Lens Evaluation Like?

A scleral lens evaluation is more involved than a routine contact lens fitting.

At C Lane Eye Associates, the process may include:

A comprehensive eye and ocular surface evaluation
Corneal measurements and topography
Evaluation of your current contact lens history
Discussion of your vision and comfort goals
Trial lens fitting
Assessment of lens position, clearance, and comfort
Follow-up adjustments to optimize the fit

Because every eye is different, achieving an excellent scleral lens fit can require careful evaluation and fine-tuning.

Finding the right scleral lens isn't simply about ordering a lens. It's about having an experienced eye care professional evaluate your eyes, understand your visual needs, and carefully customize the fit.

If you've struggled with traditional contact lenses or have been diagnosed with keratoconus, an irregular cornea, or significant ocular surface disease, a scleral lens evaluation at C Lane Eye Associates in Lexington, KY may be worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scleral Lenses

How Long Do Scleral Lenses Last?

With proper cleaning, handling, and storage, scleral lenses can typically be worn for an extended period before replacement is needed. The recommended replacement schedule depends on the lens material, condition of the lens, how it performs on the eye, and individual patient needs.

Regular follow-up appointments are important even when your lenses feel comfortable. Your eyes and lens fit can change over time, and routine evaluations help ensure that your lenses continue to perform properly.

How Do You Care for Scleral Lenses?

Proper lens care is essential.

Patients who wear scleral lenses should follow their eye care professional's instructions for:

Cleaning and disinfecting lenses
Using appropriate preservative-free saline
Proper application and removal
Storing lenses
Replacing lens cases and supplies
Recognizing symptoms that require professional attention

Never use tap water or saliva to clean or fill a scleral lens.

Can you sleep in scleral lenses?

No. Scleral lenses should generally be removed before sleeping. Scleral lenses are designed for daytime wear.

Are scleral lenses hard to put in?

There is a learning curve. Because scleral lenses are larger than conventional contact lenses, patients need to learn proper application and removal techniques. Most patients become much more comfortable with practice and instruction.

Medically Reviewed By:
Kari Carpenter, OD & Allyson Lane, OD
C Lane Eye Associates | Lexington, KY