If you’ve been told that standard contact lenses aren’t the right fit for your eyes, you may have heard about scleral contact lenses as an alternative. So, when should you wear scleral contact lenses? Scleral lenses are recommended when traditional contact lenses or glasses cannot provide comfortable, clear vision, often for people with irregular corneas, advanced dry eye, or other complex eye conditions.
What Are Scleral Lenses?
Scleral contact lenses are larger than standard contact lenses and are designed to vault over the cornea, resting instead on the white part of the eye (the sclera). Unlike smaller contact lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses create a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the surface of the eye.
This unique design provides stable, comfortable vision correction, especially for patients who have difficulty wearing regular lenses. They also keep the eye hydrated, which is great for people with chronic dry eye.
Why Are Scleral Lenses Used?
Scleral lenses are often prescribed when glasses or traditional contact lenses can’t correct vision effectively or comfortably. Some common reasons for wearing scleral lenses include:
- Keratoconus: A condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape, making it difficult for regular lenses to fit properly.
- Post-surgery corneas: After procedures like corneal transplants or LASIK, scleral lenses can help stabilize vision.
- Severe dry eye: By holding a layer of fluid against the cornea, scleral lenses keep the eyes moist and reduce discomfort.
- Corneal scarring or irregularities: Scleral lenses can smooth out vision by masking irregular surfaces.
- High prescriptions or complex vision needs: Some patients with significant astigmatism or other challenges benefit from scleral lenses for more precise correction.
What Are the Advantages of Scleral Lenses?
There are many benefits to wearing scleral lenses beyond just improved vision. Some key advantages include:
- Improved vision clarity: The design of scleral lenses masks irregular corneal shapes, providing sharp and stable vision.
- Long-lasting comfort: Because they rest on the sclera rather than the sensitive cornea, scleral lenses are often more comfortable than traditional rigid lenses.
- Hydration for the eyes: The fluid reservoir created by scleral lenses helps reduce dryness, irritation, and discomfort.
- Stability during wear: Unlike smaller contact lenses, scleral lenses move very little, making them suitable for active lifestyles.
What Are the Drawbacks of Scleral Lenses?
While scleral lenses offer many advantages, they aren’t for everyone. Some potential drawbacks include:
- Longer adaptation period: It can take time to adjust to inserting, removing, and caring for scleral lenses.
- Cleaning and care: These lenses require careful daily cleaning and handling to maintain hygiene and eye health.
- Cost: Scleral lenses are more expensive than traditional lenses because they are custom-made. However, many patients find the benefits outweigh the cost.
- Limited wear time for some patients: Not everyone can comfortably wear scleral lenses for long stretches, and daily wear time may need to be adjusted based on comfort and eye health.
FAQs About Scleral Contact Lenses
Can You Wear Scleral Lenses All Day?
Yes, many patients wear scleral lenses comfortably for the majority of their waking hours. However, it’s not recommended to sleep in them. Proper removal and cleaning at the end of the day are essential to avoid infection or discomfort.
What Is the Ideal Daily Wear Time for a Scleral Lens?
Most patients can comfortably wear scleral lenses for 12–14 hours per day. Some may tolerate longer wear, while others may need shorter periods depending on their eye health. Your optometrist will provide guidance on the safest and most comfortable wear schedule for your eyes.
Are Scleral Lenses Safe?
Yes, scleral lenses are considered safe when fitted properly and cared for diligently. Regular follow-ups with your optometrist are important to ensure your eyes remain healthy while wearing them.
Do Scleral Lenses Hurt?
Because they rest on the sclera (which has fewer nerve endings than the cornea), scleral lenses are often very comfortable. Some people even find them more comfortable than standard contact lenses once they adjust to insertion and removal.
How Do You Care for Scleral Lenses?
Caring for scleral lenses involves a few key steps:
- Use preservative-free saline solution to fill the lens before insertion.
- Clean them daily with the recommended lens cleaner.
- Store them in a disinfecting solution overnight.
- Avoid tap water or homemade cleaning solutions, which can increase the risk of infection.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are ideal for people who struggle with standard vision correction or have complex eye conditions. You may be a candidate if you:
- Have keratoconus or another irregular cornea condition
- Experience significant dry eye
- Need additional vision correction after surgery or injury
- Have not found success with standard contact lenses
Looking for Scleral Contact Lenses in Alberta?
Scleral lenses can be life-changing for people who struggle with standard contact lenses or glasses. They offer comfort, hydration, and excellent vision correction for a variety of eye conditions. While they require careful handling and follow-up care, the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks.
If you’re wondering whether scleral lenses are the right choice for you, the best step is to book a consultation with your eye doctor. At Prairie Vision in Wainwright and Vermilion, our team can assess your needs, explain your options, and fit you with scleral lenses tailored to your eyes. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and discover whether scleral lenses could improve your vision and comfort.
