7 Reasons Why Scleral Lenses Are an Ideal Treatment for People with Keratoconus

If you have been diagnosed with keratoconus, you may be aware that traditional soft contact lenses are no longer the best option for you. That’s because the irregular shape of the cornea in people with keratoconus can make it difficult or impossible to achieve an optimal fit with regular soft lenses. The good news is that there are other options – particularly scleral contact lenses. These rigid gas-permeable lenses are larger than traditional lenses and have a unique shape that allows them to fit comfortably over irregular corneas. Here are seven reasons your eye doctor might recommend scleral contact lenses for you.

 

1. They’re more comfortable.

 

Many patients report a much higher level of comfort with scleral lenses. One of the reasons that scleral lenses feel better on the eye is they are custom-designed to fit the unique shape of your eye. Many disposable lenses on the market come in one, maybe two base curves and diameters and may not fit as well as a scleral lens does.

Related Resources: Scleral Lenses Demand Is on the Rise. Are They Worth the Cost?

 

2. They provide clearer vision.

 

Patients with keratoconus typically experience better vision with scleral lenses compared with eyeglasses. Not only will your vision be clearer, but it will also be more stable and consistent. These lenses stay centered on your eye better than other lenses and aren’t as likely to pop out, even when you play sports or engage in other strenuous activities.

 

3. They last longer.

 

Scleral lenses are made of durable, high-quality materials. That means that they’ll last much longer than other lenses, such as disposable soft lenses. This longer lifespan makes scleral lenses very cost-effective. While they may cost more upfront, you won’t have to replace them nearly as often as other types of lenses.

 

4. They offer relief for dry eyes.

 

People with keratoconus are more likely to experience dry eye syndrome. The good news is that scleral lenses can help this issue as well. These lenses vault over your cornea, forming a reservoir that stays filled with saline and tears. This lubricating cushion helps to create a highly comfortable wearing experience, better vision, and a healthier ocular surface.

Related Resources: 6 Scleral Lens Benefits for Patients with Severe Dry Eyes

 

5. They also work for a large range of refractive errors

 

Scleral lenses are an effective non-surgical solution for patients with myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. In fact, if astigmatism comes from the cornea, scleral lenses can effectively neutralize 90% of this according to studies. Scleral lenses are available in a large range of parameters, which disposable lenses may not be.

 

6. They help protect your eyes.

 

Scleral lenses vault over the cornea completely and provide a fluid reservoir that can protect and restore the ocular surface in many ocular conditions. Scleral lenses can also protect the eye from the impact of foreign objects.

 

7. They’re safe for most ages.

 

Scleral contact lenses are safe for use by even young patients, as long as they are adequately cleaned and applied, and removed correctly. If you feel that your child is responsible enough to handle the supervised care of contact lenses, they are likely a good candidate for scleral lenses. Ask their eye doctor about the possibility of fitting these lenses for a child or young teen.

Related Resources: Frequently Asked Questions About Kids Wearing Contact Lenses

 

If you have questions about how scleral lenses can help you or would like to book a consultation, don’t hesitate to contact us.