What Conditions Do Scleral Lenses Treat, and Who Can Benefit Most?

Scleral lenses have revolutionized how we manage a wide range of eye conditions. Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses are larger in diameter and rest on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. This design allows them to vault over the cornea and create a tear-filled chamber that provides clear vision and long-lasting comfort. For many people who struggle with hard-to-fit eyes or persistent dry eye symptoms, scleral lenses can be life-changing.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are rigid gas permeable lenses that are uniquely designed to cover the entire corneal surface and extend to the sclera. They provide a smooth optical surface, protect the cornea, and maintain moisture throughout the day. Because of their larger size and custom fit, they are particularly effective for individuals who cannot tolerate standard contact lenses or who have irregular corneas.

Conditions Treated by Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are not just for vision correction. They are also therapeutic devices used to manage several medical conditions affecting the eye, including:

• Keratoconus: Keratoconus causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape, which distorts vision. Scleral lenses create a new, smooth surface that helps patients achieve sharper vision and comfort.

• Severe Dry Eye Syndrome: For individuals with chronic dry eye, especially those who have not found relief from other treatments, scleral lenses can offer significant improvement. The tear reservoir created by the lens keeps the eye hydrated and protected from environmental irritants.

• Post-Surgical Irregularities: After surgeries like LASIK, PRK, or corneal transplants, some patients experience irregular corneal surfaces or scarring that leads to distorted vision. Scleral lenses help by masking these imperfections and improving visual clarity.

• Ocular Surface Disease: Conditions such as Stevens Johnson Syndrome or ocular cicatricial pemphigoid can damage the surface of the eye and cause severe discomfort. Scleral lenses provide a protective barrier and promote healing.

• Corneal Ectasia: This condition, similar to keratoconus, results in the progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea. Scleral lenses help stabilize the corneal surface and improve vision.

• High Astigmatism or Irregular Astigmatism: When astigmatism is too complex or irregular for soft lenses or glasses to correct, scleral lenses can provide more accurate and stable vision.

Getting Fitted for Scleral Lenses

The process of being fitted for scleral lenses is highly personalized to ensure the best possible comfort and vision. During your fitting at Houston Dry Eye Clinic, we will take precise measurements of your eye using advanced imaging technology. This allows us to design a custom lens that fits the unique shape of your eye. You will have the opportunity to try on diagnostic lenses in-office, and adjustments will be made to fine-tune the fit. Once your lenses are finalized, we will provide training on how to insert, remove, and care for them to support long-term success.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

Scleral lenses offer more than just clear vision. They can transform quality of life for individuals with complex eye conditions by providing comfort, stability, and relief. If you have been struggling with dry eyes, poor vision, or eye discomfort despite using other treatments, you may be a good candidate for scleral lenses.

To learn more on scleral lenses, schedule a consultation with Houston Dry Eye Clinic today. Visit our office in Houston, Texas, or call (713) 664-4760 to book an appointment.