Contact lenses are a convenient and efficient visual aid for individuals who need prescription lenses to have a clear vision. While they might not be as fashionable as glasses, contacts are popular among people who prefer not to wear glasses. However, contact lenses are not for everyone with sight or vision problems.
Many people find them uncomfortable to wear. What most people do not realize is that there are different types of contact lenses. This means that if conventional lenses are not for you, you can find contacts that will suit you.
Scleral Contact Lense
Patients who may not be good candidates for the traditional contact lenses can find solutions in specialty lenses. Lens manufacturers are offering lens designs to suit different individuals. These specialty lenses or scleral contact lenses are convenient for patients who need to wear contacts.
They offer sharp vision and durability while presenting a low risk of infection. The lenses are larger than conventional contacts, making them more comfortable to wear.
Benefits of Scleral Lenses
Unlike conventional contact lenses, scleral lenses do not rest or fit over the cornea. These lenses rest over the sclera, only coming into contact with the white area of the eye. The gap created by the gas-permeable lenses makes it possible for oxygen to easily access the eye. This helps to ensure that the eye remains moist.
The large size makes the lenses more comfortable and less irritating. They fit much better over the eye. Unlike conventional lenses that range between eight and 10 millimeters in diameter, the scleral lenses have a diameter of between 14 and 20mm.
Candidates for Scleral Lenses
Candidates for the special lenses include those with different eye problems:
Irregular Cornea
An irregular cornea can occur as a result of eye surgery or from natural causes. Some individuals have a naturally steep cornea that is shaped like a cone. Such people find it impossible or difficult to wear conventional lenses. Scleral lenses work perfectly for such patients.
Keratoconus
This is an eye condition that causes thinning and bulging of the cornea. People suffering from the condition find normal contacts uncomfortable to wear because the cornea has an unusual shape. They can benefit from scleral lenses.
Dry Eyes
People who suffer from dry eyes have tear films that dry up too fast or fail to provide adequate lubrication. The scleral lenses leave a space between the eye and lens that acts as a tear film reservoir. This helps to reduce dryness and keep the eyes moist.
Ocular Surface Disease
There are ocular diseases that can make it impossible for individuals to wear regular contact lenses. The scleral lenses can act as a safety barrier for the affected ocular surface. They prevent exposure, which, in turn, helps to improve the patient’s vision.
Chemical Burns
Exposure to chemicals can lead to chemical burns. Depending on the extent or nature of the burns, patients can use special lenses.
Eyelid Abnormalities
People who have eyelid abnormalities can benefit from scleral lenses. The special lenses fit better, helping to improve the user’s vision.
Scleral lenses come in different sizes, allowing each patient to find a type to suit their specific needs. They are easier to handle than traditional contacts and offer more stability on the eye.
To know more about scleral contact lens, visit North Shore Eye Health & Wellness at our office in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. You can also call us at (262) 421-4412 to book an appointment today.
