Understanding Scleral Lenses: A Solution for Complex Vision Issues

Regular contact lenses do not work for everyone. Some people need something different. That is where scleral lenses come in. These special contacts are bigger than regular ones. Yet, they have changed the game for those who thought they would never wear contacts again.
 

What Makes Scleral Lenses Unique?

These are not your usual contacts. They are bigger and sit on the white part of your eye, the sclera, instead of the colored part. Think of them like a tiny dome that creates a pool of tears between the lens and your eye surface. This design helps people who have trouble with regular contacts.
 

Who Needs These Lenses?

Some eye conditions make regular contacts unsuitable. You might need scleral lenses if you have:

·      Keratoconus — where your cornea gets thin and cone-shaped.

·      Severe dry eyes that make regular contacts uncomfortable.

·      An irregular cornea from surgery or injury.

·      High astigmatism that regular contacts cannot fix.

·      Eye surface problems that cause pain with normal contacts.
 

Getting Used to Scleral Lenses

These lenses look huge at first. Most people worry about putting them in. Yet, many users say they feel more comfortable than regular contacts once they are in. Your eye doctor will teach you the right way to handle them. It takes practice, but most people get the hang of it quickly.
 

The Daily Routine

Wearing scleral lenses means starting a new morning routine. You will need to fill the lens with a special solution before putting it in. This keeps your eyes comfortable all day. The lenses need thorough cleaning every night. Your eye doctor will give you specific products to clean them.
 

The Good and Not-So-Good Parts

Scleral lenses can give you sharp vision when nothing else works. They protect your eyes from irritation, and most people can wear them all day.
 

However, they cost more than regular contacts. Insurance might not cover the full cost. Also, you will need more time to put them in and take them out. Some people need a few tries to get the right fit.
 

Taking Care of Your Eyes

Many people with tricky eye problems find a solution in scleral lenses. They might take more work than regular contacts, but for many people, the clear vision is worth it. Do you think your eyes and vision require extra attention? If so, visit your eye doctor regularly. They will check how the lenses fit and how your eyes are doing.
 

Eye and vision care experts keep making contact lenses better. New designs come out quite often. The materials keep improving, too. That means more people can get help with their vision problems.
 

Remember, you are not stuck with poor vision just because regular contacts do not work for you. Scleral lenses might be your way to see clearly again. Your eye doctor can tell you whether you are a good candidate for these lenses.

For more on scleral lenses, visit Turcotte Martin Eye at our Hyde Park or Boston, Massachusetts, offices. Call (617) 361-0618 or (617) 609-0095 to schedule an appointment today.