The world of ocular health can be complex and intimidating, especially when you're tasked with choosing the right type of corrective lenses. Among the array of options, scleral contact lenses stand out for their unique design and benefits.

What Are Scleral Contact Lenses?

Scleral contact lenses are a type of gas permeable contact lens that vaults over the entire corneal surface and rests on the "white" of your eye (the sclera). Due to their size and unique design, these lenses are often more comfortable than traditional contact lenses, and can provide exceptional vision clarity for individuals with certain eye conditions.

Why Consider Scleral Contact Lenses?

The first reason is related to comfort. Due to their larger size and design, scleral lenses spread the weight across a larger area of the eye. This reduces the risk of discomfort and irritation that can be caused by smaller lenses.

Another reason to consider scleral lenses is their ability to provide superior vision correction for certain eye conditions. If you have keratoconus, for example, a condition that causes your cornea to become thin and cone-shaped, regular contact lenses may not fit properly, leading to discomfort and poor vision. Scleral lenses, however, are designed to vault over the irregular cornea, providing a smooth optical surface that can greatly improve visual acuity.

In addition to comfort and vision correction, scleral lenses can also provide a more stable fit. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with active lifestyles or those who participate in sports.

Different Types of Scleral Contact Lenses

There are different types of scleral contact lenses, each designed to address specific vision needs and eye conditions. The three main types are full scleral lenses, semi-scleral lenses, and mini-scleral lenses.

Full scleral lenses are the largest type, with a diameter of 18-24mm. They offer the most coverage and are typically used in severe cases of dry eyes or irregular corneas.

Semi-scleral lenses, on the other hand, are slightly smaller, with a diameter of 15-18mm. They are also designed to vault over the cornea but rest on the junction between the cornea and the sclera.

Mini-scleral lenses are the smallest type, with a diameter of 13-15mm. They provide a secure fit and are often used for regular to moderate dry eyes or irregular corneas.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Scleral Contact Lenses

Choosing the right scleral contact lenses is not a one-size-fits-all process. Several factors to consider include your specific eye condition, lifestyle, and personal comfort.

Your eye condition plays a crucial role in determining the type of scleral lens that will provide the best vision correction. If you have severe dry eyes or a highly irregular cornea, for example, you may benefit more from full scleral lenses.

Your lifestyle is another important factor to consider. If you lead an active lifestyle or participate in sports, you may need a lens that provides a more secure fit, such as a mini-scleral lens.

Comfort is also a major consideration. The lens should feel comfortable in your eye, without causing any irritation or dryness. A lens fitting session with an optometrist can help ensure the lens fits properly and comfortably.

Consultation with an Optometrist in Choosing Scleral Contact Lenses

An eye exam and consultation with an optometrist is integral to the process of choosing scleral contact lenses. During the exam, your optometrist will assess the health of your eyes, measure the size and shape of your cornea, and discuss your vision correction needs and lifestyle.

This comprehensive evaluation enables your optometrist to recommend the type of scleral lens that best fits your individual needs. Additionally, an optometrist can provide you with instructions on how to properly care for and maintain your scleral lenses, to ensure they last as long as possible and continue providing optimal vision correction.

Conclusion

Choosing the right scleral contact lenses can have a profound impact on your quality of life. By understanding the different types of lenses, considering your specific needs, and consulting with an optometrist, you can find the lenses that will provide you with the best possible vision correction.

For more information on scleral contact lenses or to determine which type is best for your visual needs, visit 20/20 EyeVenue at our office in Westminster or Strasburg, Colorado. Call (720) 740-0400 to schedule an appointment today.