Different Types of Scleral Lenses: Finding the Right Fit for Your Eyes

Scleral lenses are a type of contact lens that vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye. They offer a unique combination of comfort, excellent visual acuity, and therapeutic benefits that make them an excellent choice for many patients.

Benefits of Using Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses offer a multitude of benefits that are simply unmatchable by other types of contact lenses. Firstly, their larger size and unique design make them more stable on the eye, reducing the risk of displacement. This stability also provides consistent vision correction, regardless of eye movement.

Secondly, the design of scleral lenses creates a reservoir of fluid between the lens and the cornea. This feature is particularly beneficial for patients with dry eye syndrome, as it provides continual hydration and lubrication, improving comfort and reducing the need for additional eye drops.

Lastly, scleral lenses provide superior visual acuity, especially for individuals with irregular corneas. They can correct vision in cases where glasses or regular contact lenses can't. They are also often more comfortable than traditional contact lenses, as they do not touch the cornea directly.

Different Types of Scleral Lenses for Different Eye Conditions

Finding the right fit is more than just a physical fit; it also means finding a lens that matches the specific needs of the eye condition. There are different types of scleral lenses, each designed to address specific eye conditions.

For instance, mini-scleral lenses are often recommended for dry eye syndrome and mild corneal irregularities. 

Full scleral lenses, on the other hand, are typically used for severe corneal irregularities and conditions like keratoconus, where the cornea bulges out in a cone shape. 

Hybrid scleral lenses, which combine the features of soft and rigid lenses, may be used for patients who require high visual acuity but need more comfort than a full scleral lens can provide.

The Role of an Optometrist

The first step in determining the right type of scleral lens involves a comprehensive eye examination. This includes a thorough evaluation of the patient's visual needs, corneal shape, and overall eye health. With this information at hand, the doctor can then make an informed decision about the most suitable type of scleral lens for the patient.

Next, they use advanced imaging techniques to map the surface of the eye. This step is crucial in designing a scleral lens that fits perfectly and comfortably on the eye. The final step involves fitting the lens and making any necessary adjustments to ensure an optimal fit.

Process of Fitting Scleral Lenses

Fitting scleral lenses is a meticulous process that requires knowledge, skill, and attention to detail. The fitting process begins with taking detailed measurements of the eye, including the corneal curvature and the depth of the corneal vault. These measurements are used to design a lens that is uniquely tailored to fit each individual eye.

Once the measurements are taken, a trial lens is placed on the eye to evaluate the fit. The lens should vault over the cornea without touching it, and it should rest comfortably on the sclera. If adjustments are needed, the lens design is modified, and another trial lens is tested. This process continues until the perfect fit is achieved.

Training the patient on how to insert, remove, and care for their scleral lenses is the final step of the fitting process. This is a critical part of ensuring the long-term success and comfort of scleral lens wear.

Ensuring Clear, Comfortable Vision with Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are a versatile and effective solution for a variety of eye conditions. From dry eye syndrome to severe corneal irregularities, these lenses offer comfort, excellent visual acuity, and therapeutic benefits. By understanding the different types of scleral lenses and their uses, you can find the right fit for your eyes and enjoy the benefits of clear and comfortable vision.

To learn more on the different types of scleral lenses and finding the right fit for your eyes, visit Avant Garde Vision Center in our Wayne, New Jersey office. Call (862) 336-1990 to schedule an appointment today.