Custom Scleral Lenses for Unmatched Comfort and Clarity
What Are Scleral Contact Lenses?
Scleral lenses are large, rigid gas permeable lenses that rest on the white part of the eye rather than the cornea. They vault over the cornea and hold a layer of saline solution, protecting the surface and keeping it moist.
The lens edges land on the sclera, creating a smooth vault over the cornea. This design avoids direct corneal contact and reduces irritation.
Modern scleral lenses are made from highly oxygen-permeable materials, allowing healthy airflow to the cornea while still providing sturdy vision correction.
We map your eye with corneal topography and other imaging tools, then manufacture a lens that matches your exact measurements for an ideal fit.
Benefits and Advantages of Scleral Lenses
The size and structure of scleral lenses offer several benefits over traditional soft or hard contacts.
Because the lens vaults over sensitive tissue, most wearers notice little to no lens awareness during the day.
The rigid surface masks corneal irregularities, giving crisp, steady vision that does not blur or shift with blinking.
High oxygen permeability maintains corneal health, lowering the risk of redness and long-term complications.
The fluid reservoir moisturizes the eye and shields it from wind, dust, and allergens, easing dryness and discomfort.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses help many people, from athletes to patients with eye disease, enjoy reliable vision and comfort.
People whose prescriptions exceed the range of standard lenses often achieve better clarity with scleral lenses.
Conditions such as keratoconus or post-surgical scars benefit from the lens vault that neutralizes an uneven cornea.
The large diameter keeps the lens centered during movement, delivering clear sight even in fast-paced sports.
Scleral lenses maintain their shape, providing sharp, consistent vision for strong prescriptions and severe astigmatism.
The saline reservoir relieves dryness and forms a barrier against airborne irritants, improving comfort for sensitive eyes.
Patients who struggle with comfort or vision in soft or standard gas permeable lenses often find relief with scleral technology.
Conditions Treated With Scleral Lenses
Doctors prescribe scleral lenses for both therapeutic and visual correction in many challenging situations.
The smooth optical surface masks cone-shaped or thinning corneas, restoring clear vision and comfort.
The constant fluid layer hydrates the eye, easing burning, redness, and gritty sensations throughout the day.
Scleral lenses protect the graft and correct the irregular surface that can follow transplant surgery.
By covering the cornea with a protective vault, the lens reduces swelling and distortion from degenerative diseases.
After LASIK, RK, or cataract surgery, scleral lenses mask irregularities and soothe related dry eye symptoms.
The lens acts as a bandage, shielding healing tissue from further injury and supporting recovery.
In conditions like Bell’s palsy or lagophthalmos, scleral lenses keep the cornea covered and hydrated when blinking is incomplete.
For Sjogren’s syndrome, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and similar disorders, scleral lenses provide essential moisture and relief.
The Fitting Process for Scleral Lenses
A careful fitting process ensures each patient receives lenses that feel good and perform well.
Corneal topography and other scans measure the exact curves of your eyes to guide lens design.
We place diagnostic lenses on your eyes and fine-tune the parameters until vision and comfort meet our goals.
You learn step-by-step techniques for inserting, removing, and caring for your new lenses with confidence.
Regular checkups let us verify fit, vision, and eye health, making adjustments if needed.
Care and Maintenance of Scleral Lenses
Good hygiene keeps your lenses clear and your eyes healthy for years of reliable use.
Always fill the lens bowl with preservative-free saline to maintain a soothing fluid reservoir.
Rub and rinse lenses each day with an approved cleaner to remove debris and protein deposits.
Store lenses in a clean case and replace the case as directed to prevent contamination.
Routine visits let us monitor lens condition and eye health, catching any issues early.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Considering cost, value, and lifestyle impact helps you decide if scleral lenses fit your goals.
Custom design and fitting make scleral lenses more expensive up front than standard contacts.
Their durability, comfort, and visual performance often offset the initial expense over time.
Many wearers report life-changing improvements in vision clarity and daily comfort.
Scleral lenses stand out in several important areas.
- Even pressure distribution for enhanced comfort
- Stable optics that stay clear all day
- Built-in moisture for dry or sensitive eyes
- Secure fit that resists dislodging during activity
The lens vault and fluid cushion reduce friction, making wear pleasant even for damaged or sensitive corneas.
The rigid lens surface neutralizes corneal irregularities, creating a new, smooth optical system for crisp vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about scleral lenses and their use.
Scleral lenses are most often prescribed to manage irregular corneas, such as those in keratoconus or after eye surgery, and to relieve severe dry eye by maintaining a fluid reservoir.
Indications include keratoconus, corneal ectasia, post-surgical irregularity, severe dry eye, Sjogren’s syndrome, large refractive errors, and intolerance to standard contacts.
Yes. Tears flow around the lens without dislodging it. Gently dab your eyes rather than rubbing to keep the lens stable.
When properly fitted and cared for, scleral lenses are safe and are approved by the FDA. High oxygen permeability and lack of corneal contact support long-term eye health.
After an adaptation period, most patients comfortably wear scleral lenses 12 to 16 hours a day. Wear time builds gradually under professional guidance.
Partner With Our Eye Care Team
Our doctors in Wayne and Randolph are ready to evaluate your eyes and explain whether scleral lenses are right for you. Together, we can create a personalized plan that brings you clearer, more comfortable vision.
Advanced Eye Care is the #1 place to go for all you eye care needs. The doctors and all their staff are friendly and helpful.
Claire & Jack
I normally don't write reviews, but I have been having such a hard time finding a good place with fair prices. Very pleased and will return again.
Sarah J
After my previous eye doctor retired, my good friend suggested Dr. Reing at Advanced Eye Care Center. Their eyeglass selection is great and prices are very reasonable.
Kimberly Conroy
My eyes are more of a cause of panic for me. The Ophthalmologists and clinical/service teams are great. They have in office Optometrists to address your eye wear or contact needs.
Stephen Sottile
I had a fabulous experience here with entire staff, Dr. Feng and the optician. My new lenses in my glasses are a major improvement.
Stephanie Terrone