How Scleral Contact Lenses Work for Dry Eye
Introduction
Scleral contact lenses work by vaulting over the sensitive cornea and resting on the white part of the eye (the sclera), creating a continuous “tear reservoir” of soothing saline. This unique design provides 24/7 hydration and superior visual clarity, offering a medical-grade solution for patients who have found no relief from traditional dry eye treatments.
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What Are Scleral Contact Lenses?
Scleral contact lenses are large-diameter gas-permeable contact lenses designed to vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye. Unlike typical contact lenses, scleral lenses cover a larger area, ensuring a more comfortable and secure fit.
The unique design of scleral lenses means that they sit stably on the eye and are less likely to accidentally dislodge. The large size also allows for a layer of saline solution to be trapped between the back of the lens and the front of the eye, providing constant hydration and alleviating dry eye symptoms.
How Do Scleral Contact Lenses Work?
Because these lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, they create a tear reservoir between the lens and the cornea. This reservoir does a fantastic job of keeping the eye moist throughout the day, providing much-needed relief to those suffering from dry eye.
Scleral lenses are also custom-made for each patient. The optometrist takes detailed measurements of your eye, ensuring a perfect fit that matches the exact contours of your eye. This customization not only enhances comfort but also provides superior visual clarity, as the lens can correct a wide range of refractive errors.
What Are the Benefits of Using Scleral Contact Lenses for Dry Eye?
For starters, the continuous hydration provided by the tear reservoir significantly reduces dry eye symptoms. Another benefit of scleral lenses is their ability to provide exceptional visual clarity. Because they are custom-made to fit your eye, these lenses are excellent at correcting refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
Lastly, scleral lenses are incredibly comfortable. They are larger than regular contact lenses, which means they distribute the weight evenly over a larger area, reducing the chances of discomfort or irritation.
Who Can Benefit Most from Scleral Contact Lenses?
Scleral lenses are more than just a vision correction tool; they are a medical solution for those who have found traditional options inadequate:
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Patients with Keratoconus, or those with irregular corneas who cannot achieve clear vision with standard lenses.
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Hard-to-Fit Patients: If you’ve been told you aren’t a candidate for contacts, our specialty fittings are designed for you.
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Sufferers of Computer Vision Syndrome: Especially those whose digital habits exacerbate eye dryness.
Are Scleral Contact Lenses Right for You?
If you’re suffering from dry eye and haven’t found relief with conventional treatments, consider scleral contact lenses. Consult with your eye doctor, who can provide a comprehensive eye exam, discuss your symptoms, and determine if scleral lenses are the right solution for you.
Daily Wear, Care, and Maintenance
To maintain the high standard of care we set at Frame & Focus, proper hygiene is essential:
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The Insertion Process: Because of their size, these lenses require a specific technique. Our staff, including Liz and Jose, provides hands-on coaching to ensure you feel confident.
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Saline Filling: Each application requires fresh, preservative-free saline to maintain that moisture cushion.
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Regular Cleaning: Lenses must be cleaned daily to prevent protein buildup and ensure long-term eye health.
Potential Challenges and Side Effects
While scleral lenses offer immediate peace of mind, there is an adaptation period. Some patients may experience “mid-day fogging,” which occurs when debris enters the reservoir. This is easily managed by removing, rinsing, and reapplying the lens. During your follow-up, Dr. Zaver will fine-tune the fit to ensure your eyes feel “seen, heard, and cared for.”
What to Expect When Adapting
Adapting to specialty lenses is a journey. We utilize state-of-the-art technology to map your eye’s surface, ensuring the fit is prioritized and customized. We typically recommend a gradual wear schedule, allowing your eyes to adjust comfortably over the first week.
Resources and Citations Used in This Article
The information presented in this article about scleral contact lenses for dry eye treatment is supported by current clinical evidence and professional guidance from leading authorities in the field. The following resources provide the foundation for the claims and recommendations discussed:
Clinical Evidence and Professional Guidelines
Scleral lenses have gained FDA approval for treating keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye disease) and are now positioned within the TFOS DEWS II treatment hierarchy, representing a significant advancement in dry eye therapy. The Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) DEWS II guidelines recommend scleral lenses when conservative treatments like artificial tears, lid therapy, and punctal plugs have proven ineffective.
Resource: Modern Optometry – “Use of Scleral Lenses For Dry Eye Disease”
Recent peer-reviewed research demonstrates that scleral lenses provide symptomatic relief for dry eye patients, even in cases without corneal irregularities. These lenses offer advantages, including ocular surface protection, corneal healing, elimination of contact lens dehydration, and improved visual acuity.
Professional Education and Standards
The Scleral Lens Education Society (SLS) teaches contact lens practitioners the science and art of prescribing scleral contact lenses and supports public education about the benefits and availability of these specialized lenses. Established in 2009, the SLS has over 2,000 member contact lens practitioners and more than 50 certified fellows who have demonstrated expertise through peer-reviewed case reports and publications.
Resource: Scleral Lens Education Society.
At Frame & Focus Eye Care, Dr. Zaver’s commitment to staying current with the latest advances in specialty contact lens fitting aligns with these professional standards, ensuring patients receive evidence-based care that follows the most current protocols and techniques established by leading organizations in the field.
To learn more about how scleral contact lenses work for dry eye, visit Frame & Focus Eye Care in our Richmond, Texas office. We are also happy to serve the surrounding areas, Greatwood, Rosenberg, Sugar Land, Pecan Grove, Four Corners, Mission Bend, New Territory, and Sugar Land. Call (832) 664-7900 to schedule an appointment today.
FAQs
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Scleral lenses vault over the cornea, resting on the sclera. This design creates a small, fluid-filled reservoir that continuously hydrates and protects the cornea from drying out.
