Who Is a Good Candidate for Scleral Lenses
How Scleral Lenses Work
Scleral lenses rest on the white part of the eye, vault over the cornea, and hold a fluid reservoir that keeps the surface moist and comfortable.
The lens does not touch the sensitive corneal tissue. Instead, it bridges across uneven or scarred areas, creating a smooth refractive surface for steady vision.
The fluid layer trapped beneath the lens bathes the eye all day, easing dryness and protecting the ocular surface from friction.
Because the lens rests on the sclera, it stays centered and resists rotation. This stability delivers crisp vision even for people with high astigmatism or irregular corneas.
Conditions Helped by Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses provide relief and clarity for many eye conditions that do not respond well to standard contacts or glasses.
Scleral lenses mask distorted or thinned corneas, giving comfortable and reliable vision.
- Keratoconus
- Pellucid marginal degeneration
- Corneal scarring
- Terrien’s marginal degeneration
The fluid reservoir hydrates and shields eyes affected by dryness or surface disease.
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Graft-versus-host disease
- Neurotrophic keratitis
- Aqueous-deficient dry eye
- Meibomian gland dysfunction
A protective vault cushions fragile tissue, reduces pain, and supports healing.
- Chemical burns
- Recurrent corneal erosions
- Persistent epithelial defects
People with extreme nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism often achieve sharper, more stable vision with scleral lenses.
Because the lens rests on the sclera, it remains steady even when eyelids turn inward or outward, reducing irritation in entropion, ectropion, or ptosis.
Athletes, first responders, and frequent travelers value the secure fit that keeps dust and dryness from disrupting vision.
Scleral lenses benefit people who struggle with traditional contacts, long computer sessions, or low-humidity environments.
- Contact lens intolerance
- Extended screen use
- Frequent air travel
- Previous rigid gas permeable lens discomfort
Key Features of Scleral Lenses
Several design elements make scleral lenses a versatile solution for challenging eyes.
Each lens is crafted to match your eye’s unique shape, maximizing comfort and clarity.
The fluid-filled space shields sensitive or scarred corneas from friction and external irritants.
The continuous moisture cushion reduces dryness, redness, and lens awareness.
The broad landing zone limits rotation and movement, preventing fluctuating vision.
The large dome-like design discourages dust and particles from slipping beneath the lens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Patients often have questions about the fit, care, and benefits of scleral lenses. Here are answers to the ones we hear most.
Most people can be fitted, but a comprehensive eye exam is needed to confirm that your ocular health and lifestyle make you a good candidate.
They take practice, yet most patients master handling techniques quickly with guidance from our eye care team.
With proper care, a pair can last one to two years. Regular follow-up visits help ensure the fit and surface remain optimal.
When fitted correctly, they are usually very comfortable. The fluid cushion prevents the lens from rubbing against the cornea.
Next Steps
Our team is ready to evaluate your eyes and discuss whether scleral lenses are right for you. We are committed to providing personalized care so you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision every day.
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