Sports Vision Optometry
When it comes to vision correction, contact lenses have revolutionized the way we see the world. They offer a convenient and effective alternative to traditional eyeglasses, granting wearers a more natural field of view and eliminating the discomfort of frames resting on the nose and ears. One type of contact lens that has gained popularity in recent years is the "scleral contact lens," a larger and more specialized lens that offers unique benefits for certain individuals. In this article, we will explore what scleral contact lenses are, how they work, and why they might be the right choice for you.
Scleral contact lenses are gas-permeable lenses that cover not only the cornea (the clear, domed surface covering the colored part of the eye) but also extend over the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. Unlike traditional contact lenses, which rest on the cornea, scleral lenses vault over the cornea, creating a tear-filled space between the lens and the eye's surface. This reservoir of saline solution provides various advantages that we'll discuss in detail.
The fitting process for scleral contact lenses is more intricate compared to regular contacts. Since they are larger and designed to vault over the cornea, a proper fitting by an eye care professional is crucial. Here's a general overview of how scleral contact lenses work:
Stability: Due to their larger size, scleral lenses are more stable on the eye. They are less likely to dislodge during activities or fall out accidentally, making them ideal for people with an active lifestyle.
Comfort: The tear-filled space between the lens and the cornea acts as a cushion, providing enhanced comfort for wearers, even for those with dry eyes or certain corneal conditions.
Vision Correction: Scleral lenses can correct various vision problems, including high order aberrations, nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and even some more complicated prescriptions.
Corneal Protection: For individuals with corneal irregularities or diseases like keratoconus, where the cornea becomes cone-shaped, scleral lenses provide a smooth optical surface that compensates for the irregularities, resulting in improved vision.
While scleral contact lenses offer various advantages, they are not for everyone. However, they can be particularly beneficial for individuals with the following conditions:
Keratoconus: Scleral lenses can improve vision and comfort for individuals with keratoconus, a condition characterized by a thinning and bulging of the cornea.
Irregular Corneas: Those with irregular corneas caused by corneal transplants or scarring may find better visual acuity and less discomfort with scleral lenses.
Dry Eye Management: The fluid reservoir beneath the lens helps maintain moisture on the eye's surface, making scleral lenses an excellent option for individuals with chronic dry eye syndrome.
Severe Dry Eye Syndrome: Scleral lenses can provide relief for those suffering from severe dry eye symptoms by maintaining a moist environment for the eye.
High Prescriptions: People with high refractive errors that cannot be easily corrected with standard contact lenses may find improved vision with scleral lenses.
Astigmatism: Scleral lenses can effectively correct astigmatism, even when other contact lens options have failed.
Steven-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)
Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN)
Persistent epithelial defects (PED)
Severe Dry eyes
Chronic Graft Vs Host Disease (GVHD)
Sjogren’s Syndrome
Keratitis Sicca
Keratoconus
Pellucid marginal corneal degeneration
Radial Keratotomy
LASIK complications
Non healing Corneal ulcers
Highly irregular Cornea
Cornea with high order aberrations.
Presbyopia Correction
Colorblindness
Light sensitivity
Headache and or Migraine
Post traumatic disorders
Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of your scleral lenses and to safeguard your eye health. Here are some care tips:
Cleanliness: Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses.
Cleaning Solution: Use the cleaning solution recommended by your eye care professional to clean and disinfect your lenses properly.
Disinfecting with Hydrogen Peroxide: Every night storing and disinfecting with H2O2 system is must to avoid any eye infections like microbial keratitis.
Follow Instructions: Adhere to your eye care provider's instructions on wearing time and replacement schedule.
Regular Check-ups: Attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor the health of your eyes and the condition of your lenses.
Khanna Vision: Offers highly customized, Impression based 3D Scleral lenses and with specially designed Optics made with high oxygen permeability materials. Impression based scleral lenses are offered for patients with highly irregular sclera and has undergone eye surgeries.
We travel that extra mile with you to give High order aberration (HOA) optics incorporated scleral lenses that can give you maximum vision possible.
Scleral contact lenses offer a unique and effective solution for individuals with specific vision needs or eye conditions. Their ability to provide stable vision correction, increased comfort, and improved eye health makes them a compelling option for those who haven't found success with traditional contact lenses or other vision correction methods. However, it is essential to consult with an eye care professional to determine if scleral lenses are the right choice for you, and to ensure a proper fit and appropriate care regimen. With the right guidance and proper care, scleral lenses can provide a clear and comfortable way to see the world.
