Why Scleral Lenses Are the Best Choice for Complex Vision Needs

For people with complex vision needs, traditional contact lenses may not always offer the comfort or clarity needed.

Scleral lenses, a type of specialized contact lenses, provide a solution for those with conditions like irregular corneas or severe dry eye. This allows hard-to-fit patients to enjoy visual freedom and clarity.

At Ridgeview Optometry in Colorado Springs, we offer personalized scleral lens fittings to ensure a perfect fit and enhanced vision.

How Do Scleral Lenses Differ from Traditional Contact Lenses?

Scleral lenses are significantly larger than traditional soft contact lenses. Conventional lenses rest on the cornea, whereas they vault over it, making minimal contact with the sensitive corneal surface. This unique design makes them ideal for individuals with keratoconus, post-surgical corneal irregularities, and other complex eye conditions.

Additionally, scleral lenses differ in how they interact with the eye's surface. They create a fluid reservoir that keeps the cornea hydrated, offering comfort and protection for those suffering from severe dry eye.

Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are designed to address specific vision challenges that traditional lenses or glasses cannot fully correct. Here are some of the key conditions that benefit from scleral lens use:

1. Keratoconus: This progressive eye disease causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape. This irregularity can make it difficult for standard contacts or glasses to provide adequate vision correction. Scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface that improves vision and prevents further irritation.
2. Irregular Corneas: Individuals with corneal irregularities caused by surgery, injury, or disease often find scleral lenses to be a game-changer. They provide a stable, comfortable fit that standard lenses cannot match.
3. Severe Dry Eye: For people suffering from severe dry eye, soft contact lenses may worsen symptoms like discomfort, itching, and redness. Scleral lenses, with their fluid-filled design, keep the cornea continuously hydrated. This provides much-needed relief from dryness and irritation.

Benefits of Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses offer numerous advantages for individuals with complex vision needs. Here’s why scleral lenses are such an effective solution:

1. Enhanced Comfort: Unlike traditional contacts which can irritate sensitive corneas, scleral lenses rest on the less sensitive sclera. This reduces discomfort and adds extra cushioning.
2. Improved Vision: For conditions like keratoconus or other corneal irregularities, scleral contact lenses offer sharp, stable vision. This is especially beneficial for those who have tried other vision correction methods with little success.
3. Long-Lasting Hydration for Dry Eyes: The fluid reservoir in scleral lenses keeps the eye hydrated throughout the day. This makes them an excellent option for people whose dry eye condition is too severe for standard treatments.
4. Customization for Unique Vision Needs: Each scleral lens is custom-made to fit the exact shape of the individual’s eye. This not only ensures a comfortable fit but also maximizes vision correction.

The Scleral Lens Fitting Process

The fitting process for scleral lenses is a personalized and precise procedure designed to ensure optimal eye health. Here’s what to expect:

• Initial Assessment: Our eye doctor will begin with a thorough eye exam. He'll take detailed measurements of your cornea and sclera using advanced imaging technology. These measurements are essential for creating custom lenses tailored to your unique eye shape.
• Trial Lenses: Based on the measurements, you’ll be given trial lenses to determine which provides the best fit and visual clarity.
• Customization: Once we find the perfect fit, we'll order custom-made scleral lenses.
• Instruction and Care: When you receive your lenses, our eye doctor will teach you how to properly insert, remove, and care for them. This includes tips for storage and hygiene to ensure the lenses last and remain comfortable.
• Follow-Up Visits: Follow-up appointments ensure the lenses are functioning properly.

Book a Consultation for Scleral Lenses in Colorado Springs

If you’re struggling with keratoconus, irregular corneas, or severe dry eye, scleral lenses could be the ideal solution for your vision needs. Explore how scleral lenses can help you by scheduling a consultation with Ridgeview Optometry in Colorado Springs today.