What Are Scleral Lenses and Who Are They For?

When it comes to vision correction, most people are familiar with traditional soft contact lenses or glasses. However, for patients with more complex vision needs, scleral lenses can provide a life-changing solution. These advanced contact lenses are designed to address conditions that standard lenses cannot, offering improved comfort, clarity, and eye health.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large, gas-permeable contact lenses that rest on the sclera rather than directly on the cornea. Because of their unique design, they vault over the cornea and create a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the eye. This fluid cushion helps smooth out irregularities in the cornea, protect the eye’s surface, and provide crisp, stable vision.

Unlike traditional contacts, scleral lenses don’t touch the cornea at all. This makes them especially beneficial for patients with sensitive eyes or corneal conditions that make wearing standard contacts difficult or impossible.

Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are often recommended for patients with the following conditions:

• Keratoconus: A progressive eye disease where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape, causing distorted vision.

• Post-Surgical Corneas: Patients who have had corneal transplants, LASIK complications, or other eye surgeries may benefit from the stability scleral lenses provide.

• Severe Dry Eye: Because of the tear-filled reservoir, scleral lenses can keep the eye hydrated throughout the day.

• Corneal Irregularities: Conditions such as scarring, trauma, or degenerative diseases that make standard contact lenses uncomfortable or ineffective.

• High Prescriptions: For patients who need sharper, more reliable vision correction that glasses or soft lenses can’t always achieve.

In addition to medical needs, some patients choose scleral lenses simply for the comfort and consistently clear vision they provide, especially if other lenses haven’t worked well for them.

Why Choose Scleral Lenses

• Exceptional Comfort: The fluid cushion reduces irritation and makes them comfortable even for sensitive eyes.

• Crisp, Stable Vision: By vaulting over corneal irregularities, scleral lenses offer clear, consistent vision.

• Eye Protection: They shield the cornea and help promote healing in certain eye conditions.

• Customized Fit: Each scleral lens is specially designed for the individual’s eye shape and needs.

Find Out if Scleral Lenses Are Right for You

Scleral lenses are more than just contact lenses - they’re a customized solution for patients whose eyes require something beyond traditional correction. If you’ve struggled with glasses, soft contacts, or even previous treatments, scleral lenses could be the key to clearer, more comfortable vision.

At Texas State Optical, we specialize in fitting scleral lenses and helping patients experience the life-changing benefits they offer. Contact our office in Kingwood, Texas, by calling (346) 466-4600 to book an appointment today.