What are Scleral Contact Lenses?
Scleral contact lenses have become increasing popular to use by eye care professionals.
Figure 1: Example scleral contact lens being filled with preservative-free saline.
Scleral contact lenses are used for a variety of purposes, primarily to improve vision and comfort for individuals with specific eye conditions. Here are the main uses:
Keratoconus: In this condition, the cornea becomes thin and bulges into a cone shape, leading to blurred vision. Scleral lenses create a smooth, even surface over the cornea, improving vision and reducing distortion.
Pellucid Marginal Degeneration: In this condition, it is characterized by thinning and a weakening of the cornea, specifically at the bottom (or peripheral) edge, which causes the cornea to bulge forward in a shape that is typically more irregular than the normal round shape.
Severe Dry Eye: Scleral lenses create a fluid reservoir between the lens and the cornea, helping to keep the eye moist and reduce discomfort for people with chronic dry eye or conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome.
Irregular Corneas: After eye surgery (such as a corneal transplant) or due to scarring, the cornea may become irregular. Scleral lenses can help correct vision by providing a stable surface for light to focus on.
Corneal Ectasia: This includes conditions like post-LASIK ectasia, where the cornea becomes weak and bulges. Scleral lenses help stabilize the cornea, improving vision.
Post-Surgical Vision Correction: Scleral lenses are often used after eye surgeries, such as corneal transplants or LASIK, to improve vision or protect the cornea.
High Astigmatism: For people with significant astigmatism, traditional contact lenses or glasses might not provide clear enough vision. Scleral lenses can help create a uniform surface, improving the clarity of vision.
Other Corneal Disorders: Scleral lenses can also be used for people with conditions like corneal dystrophies, severe allergic reactions, or other rare corneal abnormalities.
Overall, scleral lenses are a versatile option for people with complex or difficult-to-manage eye conditions that affect vision or comfort.