The Ultimate Guide to Scleral Lenses: Benefits, Fittings, and Expert Care at Global Vision Rehabilitation Center

Scleral lenses are more than just an innovation in eye care—they are a lifeline for people suffering from complex eye conditions. These advanced lenses have transformed the way vision correction is delivered, offering unparalleled comfort, hydration, and precision. At Global Vision Rehabilitation Center, we specialize in fitting custom scleral lenses tailored to each patient’s unique eye shape and condition. Whether you are managing keratoconus, dry eye syndrome, or complications from previous surgeries, scleral lenses provide the clarity and relief you’ve been seeking.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore everything about scleral lenses, from how they work to who benefits the most, and why our advanced tools, such as the WaveDyn Vision Analyzer, make all the difference in providing top-tier care.

Key Takeaways

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are specialized, gas-permeable contact lenses designed to address vision challenges that traditional lenses cannot resolve. Unlike standard lenses, scleral lenses are much larger in diameter and rest on the sclera—the white part of the eye—without touching the sensitive cornea. This unique feature provides a range of benefits:

• Tear Reservoir for Hydration: The space between the lens and cornea is filled with saline solution, which keeps the cornea hydrated throughout the day. This makes scleral lenses a powerful solution for patients with severe dry eye syndrome or meibomian gland dysfunction.
• Protection from Irritants: By vaulting over the cornea, these lenses shield the eye from environmental irritants, such as dust and wind, while also preventing further damage to already compromised corneas.
• Improved Vision Quality: The lenses provide a smooth optical surface, which corrects irregularities in the cornea caused by conditions like keratoconus or corneal ectasia.

Scleral lenses are highly customizable and can address a variety of vision problems. At Global Vision Rehabilitation Center, we offer tailored solutions, including advanced designs like EyePrint Pro lenses, to ensure every patient achieves optimal results.

Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are an excellent option for individuals dealing with a range of eye conditions that require specialized care. Below, we outline the conditions most commonly treated with scleral lenses and how they provide relief.

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape, distorting vision. Patients with keratoconus often experience challenges with traditional contact lenses due to discomfort and poor fit. Scleral lenses create a tear-filled vault over the cornea, correcting visual distortions while offering superior comfort. To learn more, visit our Keratoconus page.

Dry Eye Syndrome

For individuals with dry eye syndrome, wearing contact lenses can exacerbate symptoms like redness, irritation, and blurred vision. Scleral lenses are different. By maintaining a saline-filled reservoir, they provide continuous hydration, reducing discomfort and protecting the cornea. If your dryness is linked to meibomian gland dysfunction, scleral lenses can offer long-lasting relief.

Corneal Ectasia

Patients with corneal ectasia or other irregularities often struggle to find lenses that fit properly. Scleral lenses compensate for these irregularities by creating a smooth optical surface, improving both vision and comfort.

Post-Surgical Vision Loss

After procedures like LASIK or corneal transplants, some patients experience complications that lead to irregular corneas or vision loss. Scleral lenses offer a non-surgical solution, restoring clarity and comfort. Visit our Post-Surgical Vision Loss page to learn more.

Corneal Dystrophy and Degeneration

For patients with corneal dystrophy and degeneration, scleral lenses act as a protective barrier while improving vision quality. This makes them an essential tool for managing progressive conditions.

How Are Scleral Lenses Fitted?

Fitting scleral lenses is a precise and patient-focused process that involves advanced diagnostic tools to ensure accuracy. Here’s what you can expect during your fitting at Global Vision Rehabilitation Center.

Step 1: Comprehensive Eye Exam

The process begins with a thorough evaluation of your eye health. Using tools like Computerized Corneal Topography and Cirrus Optical Coherence Tomography, we map the surface of your cornea and identify any irregularities.

Step 2: Custom Lens Design

We utilize the WaveDyn Vision Analyzer to capture real-time data about your eye’s optical system. This information allows us to design lenses tailored to your unique eye shape. For particularly complex cases, we may recommend EyePrint Pro lenses, which are custom-molded for a perfect fit.

Step 3: Trial Fitting

During this stage, you’ll try on a set of trial lenses. Our specialists will evaluate the fit, comfort, and vision clarity, making any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal performance.

Step 4: Final Fitting and Care Instructions

Once your custom lenses are finalized, we’ll provide comprehensive instructions on how to wear, clean, and care for them to ensure they last as long as possible and maintain peak performance.

Benefits of Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses offer transformative benefits for patients with a variety of eye conditions. Below are some of the key advantages that set them apart from traditional contact lenses.

Superior Vision Correction

Scleral lenses correct visual distortions by creating a smooth optical surface over irregular corneas. This is particularly beneficial for conditions like keratoconus and post-surgical complications.

All-Day Comfort

Because scleral lenses rest on the sclera rather than the cornea, they avoid irritating the sensitive corneal surface. This makes them comfortable for extended wear, even for patients with severe dryness or irritation.

Continuous Hydration

The tear-filled reservoir beneath the lens keeps the eye hydrated throughout the day, providing relief for individuals with chronic dry eye or meibomian gland dysfunction.

Versatility

Scleral lenses are suitable for a wide range of conditions, from managing corneal disease to addressing complications from radial keratotomy.

Advanced Technology for Scleral Lens Fitting

At Global Vision Rehabilitation Center, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to ensure the best outcomes for our patients:

• WaveDyn Vision Analyzer: Captures dynamic, real-time data for precision measurements.
• Visante Optical Coherence Tomography: Provides detailed imaging of the cornea and retina.
• Wavefront Aberrometer: Identifies higher-order aberrations for custom lens design.
• Specular Microscopy: Assesses corneal endothelial cell health.

These tools allow us to create highly customized lenses that provide exceptional comfort and vision correction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scleral Lenses

How do scleral lenses differ from traditional contact lenses?
Scleral lenses are larger and rest on the sclera, not the cornea, making them more stable and comfortable for long-term wear.

Can scleral lenses help with severe dry eye syndrome?
Yes, the tear-filled reservoir in scleral lenses keeps the eye hydrated, providing relief for dry eye symptoms.

Are scleral lenses hard to care for?
No. With proper guidance, caring for scleral lenses is straightforward. Our team will provide detailed instructions during your fitting.

Are scleral lenses suitable for all eye conditions?
While they are ideal for many conditions, an eye exam is necessary to determine if scleral lenses are the right solution for you.

How long do scleral lenses last?
With proper care, scleral lenses can last up to a year or more, making them a cost-effective solution for long-term vision correction.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re ready to experience the benefits of scleral lenses, contact us today. At Global Vision Rehabilitation Center, we combine advanced technology with personalized care to help you achieve clear, comfortable vision. Schedule your consultation here.