Contact lenses are revolutionary equipment that can quickly provide clear vision with little to no irritation to the wearer. As many kinds of contact lenses are available in the market, each serves its purpose. One such helpful kind of lens is the Scleral contact lens. 

What are Scleral Contact Lenses

Large-diameter gas permeability contact lenses known as scleral lenses cover the sclera and vault over the cornea, the transparent front of the eye, and the white area. The scleral lens provides a soft optical surface that aids in treating visual issues brought on by keratoconus and other cornea irregularities.

Unlike traditional lenses, which sit on the cornea, they are fitted to leave room between the lens and the cornea. Before installation, an isotonic fluid is inserted into the scleral lenses. Tears are then stored between the cornea and the lenses’ side, which keeps the eye moist. People with extreme ocular diseases can find comfort from this moisture, which helps to combat dry eyes.

Clinics implant patients with scleral contact lenses every day with large-diameter gas-permeable glasses. In comparison to soft contacts, they offer the same benefits as traditional gas-permeable lenses do, such as: 

  • Sharper vision 
  • Greater durability 
  • Easier handling 
  • Lower chance of problems

Scleral lenses are far less likely to accidentally fall out of the eye since they are more solid on the eye due to their size than traditional gas-permeable lenses. They may be more comfortable than traditional gas-permeable lenses due to their stability. For sensitive eyes or corneas with uneven shapes, scleral lenses offer comfort similar to that soft lenses.

Conditions Treated Through Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are specifically designed to contact lenses that are used to treat a variety of eye disorders and vision problems. These lenses have a tiny pool-like region on the lens where fake tears are kept. Compared to regular contact lenses, the cornea coated with artificial tears maintains moisture for extended periods. Compared to conventional lenses, scleral lenses have a wider diameter.

As a result, the patient is more comfortable because they can easily cover a more extensive area of the eye without contacting the cornea. Because the cornea takes a long time to repair after a corneal transplant, up to a year, and is extremely sensitive during the healing process, this can be enormously beneficial for those individuals.

Scleral lenses are produced specifically for each situation because every patient’s eyesight, prescription requirements, and corneal shape are unique. The scleral lens patients benefit from the crisper focus and increased visual clarity. These lenses effectively treat the following eye conditions: 

  • Corneal transplants
  • Post-radial keratology (RK) surgery
  • Corneal trauma
  • Moderate to severe dry eye 
  • Keratoconus 
  • Corneal ectasias and irregularities
  • Post LASIK
  • High amounts of astigmatism
  • Aphakia

Conclusion

Scleral contact lenses offer and help treat several eye problems, some of which are mentioned above. They are more convenient, comfortable, and effective than contemporary lenses and can treat and cater to each eye’s irregularity. You can contact our experts at Whitney Eye Care for specialized treatments if you are searching for a reliable eye clinic.