Scleral Contacts for Irregular Corneas: Are You a Candidate?

If you’ve been struggling with blurry or distorted vision and traditional contact lenses just don’t seem to provide the clarity or comfort you need, you may be dealing with an irregular cornea. Scleral lenses are specially designed to address these challenges by providing a smooth optical surface and stable fit, helping restore clarity and comfort for those with complex vision needs.

What Are Scleral Contact Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas permeable contact lenses that rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye) rather than directly on the cornea. They vault over the cornea and create a tear-filled chamber that helps smooth out any irregularities on the corneal surface. This design not only improves vision but also provides hydration and protection to the eye, making them ideal for individuals with sensitive or compromised corneas.

Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

Scleral contacts are typically recommended for patients who experience vision problems that cannot be corrected with traditional glasses or soft contact lenses. Common conditions that may benefit from scleral lenses include:

• Keratoconus

• Post-LASIK or RK complications

• Corneal ectasia

• Severe dry eye disease

• Corneal scarring

• Pellucid marginal degeneration

• Post-corneal transplant vision correction

These lenses provide a stable and consistent optical surface, helping restore clear vision when the cornea’s shape has been altered or damaged.

The Fitting Process

Getting fitted for scleral lenses is a specialized process that requires advanced technology and expertise. At Uptown Eyecare, we use state-of-the-art corneal mapping and imaging tools to measure your eye’s shape and determine the best lens design for your needs. Your eye doctor will evaluate your candidacy and work closely with you throughout the fitting and follow-up process to ensure optimal vision and comfort.

Are You a Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for scleral contact lenses if you’ve been diagnosed with a corneal condition that affects your vision. Conditions such as keratoconus, corneal scarring, or post-surgical complications can alter the shape of your cornea, making it difficult for traditional lenses to provide clear vision.

If you’ve had limited success with soft or rigid gas permeable lenses, scleral lenses may offer a more effective and comfortable alternative. Their unique design allows them to vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, providing a stable fit and smooth optical surface.

Chronic dry eye is another reason to consider scleral lenses. These lenses create a fluid reservoir over the cornea, offering continuous hydration and relief for those with dryness or sensitivity.

Additionally, if you're seeking a non-surgical solution to improve your vision, scleral lenses can be an excellent option. They are custom-designed to fit your unique eye shape and provide significant improvement in both vision and comfort. The best way to determine if you’re a candidate is to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with our optometrist who specializes in scleral lens fittings.

Take the First Step Toward Clearer, More Comfortable Vision

If you’re living with an irregular cornea or struggling to find contact lenses that work for you, scleral lenses could be the solution you need. With their advanced design and customized fit, these lenses offer both clarity and comfort.

Schedule your eye exam at Uptown Eyecare and discover if scleral contact lenses are the right choice for you. Contact our offices in Orlando, Florida, by calling our Hunter's Creek office at (407) 855-6132, or our Pixon Lake Nona location at (407) 378-2585 to book an appointment today.