Everything You Need to Know About the Different Types of Scleral Lenses

Different Types of Scleral Lenses

Knowing the difference between the three main types of scleral lenses can help you, and your eye doctor determine which solution is right for you.

You may be a good candidate for scleral lenses if you have had trouble wearing regular contact lenses because of comfort issues, vision complications, or eye health conditions that prevent you from wearing traditional lenses. Whereas regular contact lenses rest directly on the cornea, these lenses are made to vault over the cornea and rest instead on the white part of the eye, also known as the sclera.

Scleral lenses are known for their comfort and beneficial properties, especially for people with conditions such as dry eye syndrome, keratoconus, eye injuries, and other types of ocular disease. These lenses got their start as a specialized treatment for specific conditions but have increasingly become popular among patients with normal corneas. There are several different types of scleral lenses; your eye doctor can help you determine which is right for you.

 

1. Quadant Specific or Toric Scleral Lenses

These scleral lenses are fitted to the sclera rather than the cornea. These lenses come in different sizes to fit different patients with different needs. These scleral lenses vault over the cornea and align with the sclera in a customized way, creating a space between the lens and the surface of the eye that holds preservative-free saline solution and keeps the eye hydrated and comfortable. This type of lens offers superior comfort for most patients as well as better stability and centration than conventional contact lenses. Quadant specific or Toric scleral lenses are an excellent choice for individuals with keratoconus, dry eyes, complications caused by Lasik eye surgery, or other eye injuries or conditions that make regular contact lenses too difficult to wear.

 

 

2. Software-Based Scleral Lenses (Latitude)

The Latitude® Scleral lens, a revolutionary software-based lens, conforms precisely to the shape of the sclera where it rests. These lenses are designed to have uniform clearances throughout, including the central, mid-peripheral, and limbal areas – regardless of the extent of the irregularity of the cornea. The unique design of this type of lens gives it a unique contour for an exact fit. Latitude lenses are suitable for most patients, but particularly for those with a larger degree of irregularity, asymmetric keratoconus, or other issues that make fitting more complicated.

 

 

3. Impression-Based Scleral Lenses (EyePrintPRO)

Another type of scleral lens that provides an exceptionally accurate fit is the EyePrintPRO. This impression-based scleral contact lens proves an ideal solution for many patients who have trouble with traditional contact lenses and other types of scleral lenses. This method is vastly superior to the practice of finding a good fit among pre-manufactured lenses via trial and error. Creating an impression of the eye takes only a few minutes, and the lenses are much more likely to fit optimally on the first attempt.

 

 

 

Which Type Is Right for You?

There are several considerations to make when choosing between smaller- and larger-diameter dry eye scleral lenses. Larger lenses offer more favorable lens bearing distribution, increased peripheral vault, and better protection against damage to the ocular surface. Smaller lenses tend to be easier to get used to and apply. It’s important to discuss all these factors with your eye care provider and work together to find the right fit for your eyes.

 

Related post: 6 Scleral Lens Benefits for Patients with Corneal Irregularities

 

At Miami Contact Lens Institute, our eye doctors will examine your eyes and talk with you about all of your options, helping you identify the best solution that protects your vision and your eye health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and eye exam.

 

Testimonial from Carrie, Eye Care Patient 

My entire family comes here for eye exams & glasses. Everyone here are very nice and respectful. Dr. Kramer is super attentive and gave us great recommendations. Rick is very patience and sweet. Haydee is very efficient and always on top of things. I highly recommend this place for your glasses/contact lenses.

 

WordPress Lightbox