Comprehensive Guide to Scleral Lenses: Benefits, Fitting, and Care

Key Takeaways

Scleral lenses are emerging as a transformative solution in the realm of eye care, offering unparalleled benefits over traditional contact lenses. These specialized lenses provide not only vision correction but also enhanced comfort, especially for those with sensitive eyes or specific ocular conditions. At Global Vision Rehabilitation Center, led by Dr. Boshnick, we are at the forefront of utilizing scleral lenses to improve our patients’ quality of life.

Scleral lenses are distinguished by their unique design, which covers the entire corneal surface and rests on the sclera, the white part of the eye. This design is particularly beneficial for individuals with dry eye conditions, such as those caused by Sjogren’s Syndrome, or for those who have experienced discomfort with conventional contact lenses. Our comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of scleral lenses, from their benefits and fitting process to their care and maintenance, ensuring you have all the information you need to understand their transformative impact.

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Understanding Scleral Lenses

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are a groundbreaking type of contact lens that offer a unique solution for various eye conditions. Unlike traditional contact lenses that rest on the cornea, scleral lenses are larger and designed to vault over the entire corneal surface, extending to rest on the sclera – the white part of the eye. This distinctive design makes them an ideal choice for individuals with irregular corneas or severe dry eye conditions.

One of the key advantages of scleral lenses is their ability to create a tear-filled chamber over the cornea. This feature is particularly beneficial for those suffering from dry eye syndrome, as it provides continuous hydration to the eye’s surface. Moreover, scleral lenses are known for their stability and comfort, making them a preferred option for many patients who have had challenges with other types of lenses.

At Global Vision Rehabilitation Center, we specialize in fitting scleral lenses to meet the unique needs of each patient. Dr. Boshnick’s expertise ensures that every pair of scleral lenses is tailored to provide the best possible vision and comfort.

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How Do Scleral Lenses Work?

The effectiveness of scleral lenses lies in their innovative design. By vaulting over the cornea and resting on the less sensitive sclera, these lenses distribute pressure more evenly, reducing discomfort for the wearer. This design also prevents the lens from moving excessively, ensuring a stable and consistent vision correction.

For individuals with irregular corneas, such as those with keratoconus, scleral lenses provide a smooth optical surface, correcting vision distortions that cannot be addressed by standard lenses. Additionally, the tear reservoir created by scleral lenses plays a crucial role in maintaining corneal hydration, which is vital for eye health, especially in conditions like Sjogren’s Syndrome where tear production is compromised.

At our center, we utilize advanced technologies like the Wavefront Scleral Lenses to customize lenses for each patient, ensuring optimal vision and comfort. Dr. Boshnick’s extensive experience in this field guarantees precision in fitting and maximizing the therapeutic benefits of scleral lenses.

The Benefits of Scleral Lenses

Enhanced Comfort and Reduced Dryness

One of the most significant benefits of scleral lenses is the enhanced comfort they offer, particularly for individuals with dry eye conditions. The design of these lenses creates a protective barrier over the cornea, maintaining a hydrating tear reservoir. This feature is crucial for patients with dry eyes, as it provides continuous moisture, significantly reducing eye dryness, irritation, and discomfort. Patients often report a noticeable improvement in eye comfort throughout the day, making scleral lenses a preferred choice for long-term wear.

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Improved Vision Quality

Scleral lenses are not only about comfort; they also offer superior visual acuity. Their ability to form a smooth optical surface over the cornea corrects a wide range of refractive errors, including those associated with irregular corneas. This results in clearer, more stable vision, which is particularly beneficial for patients with conditions like keratoconus or post-surgical irregularities. The consistent positioning of scleral lenses also means that vision correction is stable throughout the day, providing patients with reliable and sharp vision.

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Protection and Eye Health

Beyond comfort and vision correction, scleral lenses play a vital role in protecting the eye. By covering the entire corneal surface, they shield the eyes from environmental irritants, allergens, and dust. This is particularly important for individuals who are prone to eye infections or have sensitive eyes. Additionally, the continuous tear film maintained by scleral lenses helps preserve the health of the cornea, preventing issues related to dryness and exposure. The overall impact of scleral lenses on eye health is profound, making them a valuable tool in comprehensive eye care.

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The Fitting Process for Scleral Lenses

Initial Consultation and Eye Examination

The journey to obtaining scleral lenses begins with a comprehensive eye examination at Global Vision Rehabilitation Center. During the initial consultation, Dr. Boshnick conducts a thorough assessment of your eye health and vision needs. This examination is crucial in determining the suitability of scleral lenses for your specific condition. Factors such as the shape of your cornea, the severity of your dry eye condition, and any previous eye surgeries are taken into account to ensure the best possible outcome.

Schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Boshnick.

Customized Lens Design and Fitting

Following the examination, the next step is the customization of your scleral lenses. At Global Vision, we utilize state-of-the-art technology like the Eye Print Pro and Wavefront Aberrometer to take precise measurements of your eyes. These measurements are essential for designing lenses that fit perfectly and provide optimal vision correction. Dr. Boshnick’s expertise ensures that each lens is tailored to meet the unique contours of your eyes, offering unparalleled comfort and effectiveness.

Follow-Up and Adjustments

After the initial fitting, follow-up appointments are key to ensuring the best possible experience with your scleral lenses. These appointments allow Dr. Boshnick to make any necessary adjustments to the fit of the lenses and to monitor your eye health. Regular follow-ups also provide an opportunity to address any questions or concerns you may have, ensuring a smooth adaptation to your new lenses. Our commitment at Global Vision is to provide ongoing support and care, making the transition to scleral lenses as seamless as possible.

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Care and Maintenance of Scleral Lenses

Daily Cleaning and Handling

Proper daily care is essential for the longevity and effectiveness of scleral lenses. It is important to clean and rinse your lenses every day with the recommended solutions to remove deposits and prevent contamination. Handling your lenses with clean, dry hands is crucial to avoid transferring bacteria to your eyes. At Global Vision Rehabilitation Center, we provide detailed instructions and recommend the best products for cleaning and handling your scleral lenses, ensuring they remain safe and comfortable to wear.

Find out more about scleral lens care at Global Vision.

Storage and Regular Replacement

Storing your scleral lenses properly is as important as cleaning them. Lenses should be stored in a clean, dry case, and the storage solution should be changed regularly to maintain lens hygiene. Additionally, scleral lenses, like all contact lenses, have a lifespan and should be replaced as recommended by your eye care professional. Regular check-ups with Dr. Boshnick ensure that your lenses are functioning optimally and are replaced when necessary, maintaining the health of your eyes and the quality of your vision.

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Monitoring Eye Health

Continuous monitoring of your eye health is vital when using scleral lenses. Regular appointments with Dr. Boshnick allow for the assessment of the fit and condition of the lenses, as well as the health of your eyes. These check-ups are crucial for catching any potential issues early and making adjustments to your lens care routine or prescription as needed. At Global Vision Rehabilitation Center, we are committed to providing comprehensive care to ensure your ongoing comfort and the best possible vision with your scleral lenses.

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Scleral Lenses for Specific Conditions

Scleral Lenses for Keratoconus

Keratoconus, a condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape, can significantly distort vision. Scleral lenses are particularly effective for keratoconus patients due to their ability to vault over the cornea, providing a smooth optical surface for improved vision. At Global Vision Rehabilitation Center, we have extensive experience in fitting scleral lenses for keratoconus, offering patients a solution that not only corrects vision but also enhances overall eye comfort.

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Scleral Lenses for Post-Surgical Eyes

Patients who have undergone eye surgeries like LASIK or corneal transplants often face challenges with traditional contact lenses. Scleral lenses are an excellent option for post-surgical eyes, as they provide a stable fit and reduce the risk of irritation to the sensitive or irregular corneal surface. Dr. Boshnick’s expertise in fitting scleral lenses for post-surgical patients ensures personalized care and optimal visual outcomes.

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Scleral Lenses for Severe Dry Eye

Severe dry eye, often a symptom of conditions like Sjogren’s Syndrome, can be debilitating. Scleral lenses are a game-changer for such patients, as they maintain a hydrating tear reservoir, alleviating dryness and discomfort. The continuous moisture provided by these lenses helps to preserve corneal health and improves the quality of life for individuals with chronic dry eye conditions.

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Conclusion and Next Steps

Embracing a New Vision with Scleral Lenses

At Global Vision Rehabilitation Center, led by Dr. Boshnick, our mission is to enhance your visual experience and quality of life through advanced eye care solutions. Scleral lenses are more than just a vision correction option; they represent a new horizon in eye care, especially for those with challenging conditions like keratoconus, post-surgical complications, or severe dry eye. Our personalized approach ensures that each patient receives lenses that are not only comfortable and effective but also tailored to their unique visual needs.

If you’re facing challenges with traditional contact lenses or struggling with eye conditions that affect your daily life, scleral lenses might be the solution you’ve been seeking. We invite you to take the first step towards clearer, more comfortable vision.

Start your journey towards better vision with Dr. Boshnick.

Scheduling Your Consultation

To explore the possibilities that scleral lenses offer, schedule a consultation with Dr. Boshnick at Global Vision Rehabilitation Center. During your visit, we’ll conduct a thorough examination, discuss your specific needs, and determine if scleral lenses are right for you. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support throughout your journey to better vision.

Book your consultation today.