Scleral Contact Lenses

What are Scleral Contact Lenses?

Scleral lenses are custom, large-diameter, rigid gas-permeable contact lens that cover the entire cornea and rest on the sclera (the “white” part of the eye). The space between the lens and the cornea acts as a fluid reservoir, keeping your cornea moist.

They are are ideal for “hard-to-fit” eyes, those with corneal complications (see below), or those with extensive dryness, providing unparalleled comfort and increased moisture (for oxygen flow).

What are the benefits of scleral lenses?

  • customized to your eye, they provide a perfectly smooth optical surface (necessary for optimal vision correction)
  • sharper vision
  • more stable on the eye
  • added comfort for sensitive eyes
  • better fit for those with irregularly shaped corneas
  • increased moisture for those with excessively dry eyes
  • the rigid, gas-permeable design allows for plenty of oxygen to reach the cornea

Scleral lenses are an excellent option for those with certain eye conditions or diseases, including:

  • Keratoconus
  • Post-laser surgery (LASIK & PRK) corneal irregularities
  • Dry eye
  • Graft vs. Host disease and corneal transplant patients
  • Sjogren’s Syndrome
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

What’s the process?

HOW LONG?

  • Scleral contact lenses are individualized and custom-made for each patient (and each eye), so fitting takes significantly more time than it would take to fit standard contact lenses or GP lenses.
  • The process requires multiple fittings with modifications made to the lenses each time. The result is a completely customized lens providing the best possible fit and comfort available.

WHAT PRESCRIPTION DO I USE?

  • Refraction while wearing the Scleral contact lenses will be done to determine your Scleral contact lens prescription (as it will be very different from your previous prescription for eyeglasses or even other contact lenses).
  • At that time, we will order a “trial set” which will be subsequently modified for optimal fit and visual acuity.

HOW MUCH DO THEY COST?

  • The actual price of a pair of Scleral Contact Lenses varies depending on the patient’s eye condition and level of customization required. Generally, they range from $1,800 to $2,000 for a pair.

How can I find out more?

Contact us for a consultation to see if you are a candidate for Scleral Contact Lenses.

Image Credit: University of Alabama at Birmingham