What to Know About Scleral Contact Lenses
Scleral contact lenses are special gas permeable lenses that rest on the sclera, or white part of the eye. They are primarily prescribed to treat various eye conditions, including:
* Keratoconus: A progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea.
* Pellucid marginal degeneration: A thinning and weakening of the peripheral cornea.
* Post-LASIK ectasia: A condition where the cornea becomes thin and weak after LASIK surgery.
* Stevens-Johnson syndrome: A rare disorder that causes inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes.
* Dry eye: Scleral lenses can also help with dry eye by creating a reservoir of tears between the lens and the cornea.
Scleral contact lenses are typically larger in size than regular contact lenses, and they are custom-fit to each individual patient. They are often worn for extended periods, such as overnight or for several days at a time. Because scleral lenses vault over the cornea, they can provide clear vision even for patients with severe corneal irregularities or scarring.
Here are some things to know about scleral contact lenses:
* Fitting Process: Scleral lenses require a specialized fitting process performed by an eye care professional trained in scleral lens fitting. Eye measurements and corneal topography (a map of the cornea’s surface) help the eye doctor determine the best lens size, shape, and other parameters.
* Comfort: Although scleral lenses may feel larger or heavier than regular contact lenses initially, they are designed to provide a comfortable fit. The lens should not put excessive pressure on the eye, and any initial discomfort usually decreases over time as the patient becomes accustomed to the lenses.
* Vision Correction: Scleral lenses can provide excellent vision correction, even in cases of severe corneal irregularity. They can correct a wide range of vision problems, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
* Reduced Corneal Touch: Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses do not directly touch the cornea. Instead, they rest on the sclera, reducing the risk of corneal damage or corneal abrasions.
* Moisture Retention: Scleral lenses create a reservoir of tears between the lens and the cornea, which can help alleviate symptoms of dry eye and preserve the health of the corneal surface.
* Extended Wear: Scleral lenses can often be worn for extended periods, ranging from 12 to 14 hours or even for several days consecutively, depending on the patient’s needs and the doctor's recommendation.
* Care and Maintenance: Proper care and maintenance are crucial for scleral lenses. Cleaning the lenses daily and following the eye doctor's instructions regarding lens care and replacement schedule are essential to ensure lens safety, comfort, and longevity.
Overall, scleral contact lenses offer a safe and effective treatment option for a variety of eye conditions. They can significantly improve vision, manage symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for patients with corneal irregularities, severe dry eye, or other complex conditions.