Scleral Lenses for Post-Surgical Eyes

Looking to restore vision with precision post-surgery?

Many patients who have undergone surgical procedures like LASIK or corneal transplants face challenges achieving clear vision with traditional contact lenses. Irregular corneas, a common result of these procedures, can cause soft lenses to fit poorly, leading to distorted vision, light sensitivity, and headaches.

Scleral lenses offer an innovative solution that provides a stable fit, improved comfort, and exceptional vision correction for post-surgical eyes.

 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Unlike traditional soft contact lenses, scleral lenses are large diameter, rigid gas-permeable lenses designed rest comfortably on the sclera (the white part of the eye) as opposed to soft lenses which rest on the cornea. The unique design of scleral lenses eliminates the need for the lens to touch the corneal surface which is often irregular and/or scarred.

Many patients find scleral lenses to be noticeably more comfortable than traditional lenses. This is due to the fact that the sclera of the eye is significantly less sensitive than the cornea making it easier to comfortably wear scleral lenses for several hours. The constant contact between soft lenses and the cornea can lead to itching, dry eye, and irritation.

Scleral lenses can be life changing for many patients struggling with chronic dry eye, irregular vision, and ocular injuries. They are made to fit the eye exactly, making them the best option available for hard-to-treat eyes.

 

When Are Scleral Lenses an Option?

Post-Surgical Complications

Ocular surgeries are extremely delicate and can lead to complications. Radial Keratotomy is a procedure that isn’t commonly recommended anymore due to the unpredictability and high risk of post-surgical complications and side effects like glare, halos, and fluctuations in vision. We now prefer to use LASIK, but many patients are still dealing with the effects of RK.

Irregular corneas can make it impossible to function with soft lenses due to the bumpy surface. Soft lenses need to adhere fully to the cornea in order to effectively correct vision. Soft lenses are also prone to moving around throughout the day which can severely affect the vision of the wearer.

This is where scleral lenses offer an incredible alternative. The liquid reservoir between the cornea and the lens neutralize irregularities on the corneal surface, giving the patient clear, consistent vision all day. Scleral lenses are also an excellent option for post-surgical healing as they protect the eye from injury and debris and provide restoration and protection of the ocular surface.

 

Corneal Transplants

Corneal transplants can restore vision, but they can’t create a perfectly smooth cornea because it’s nearly impossible to match the exact curve of the natural cornea. Often, patients will have myopia and irregular astigmatism after a corneal transplant.

Scleral lenses are the ideal option for corneal transplant patients as they provide stable vision correction while protecting the eyes. The pressure of soft lenses can put strain on corneal transplants, increasing the risk of graft failure. Because scleral lenses rest on the sclera instead of the cornea, there is no pressure on the transplant.

 

What are the Benefits of Scleral Lenses for Post-Surgical Eyes?

• Sharper Vision: By creating a smooth, regular optical surface, scleral lenses eliminate visual distortions caused by irregular corneas. This translates to significantly improved clarity and detail in your vision.
• Enhanced Comfort: The space between the lens and the cornea allows for a reservoir of lubricating fluid. This alleviates dry eye symptoms, a frequent complication after LASIK and other surgical procedures.
• Stable Fit: Scleral lenses vault over the cornea, avoiding any irregularities. This ensures a stable and comfortable fit, even on eyes with significant corneal changes which may interfere with the stability of soft lenses.
• Corneal Protection: The space created by the lens acts as a barrier, shielding the cornea from dust, allergens, and other irritants in the environment. This is particularly beneficial for eyes healing from surgery.

 

What Can You Expect from Fitting Scleral Lenses?

The process typically starts with a comprehensive eye examination to assess your vision needs and measure your eye shape. Advanced imaging technology is used to create a map of the ocular surface. This map allows specialists to create fully customized lenses, ensuring a comfortable fit and effective vision correction.

Once you have your lenses, proper cleaning and disinfection is vital to maintaining a safe, bacteria free ocular environment. Your eyecare practitioners will give you detailed instructions for maintenance, but you will need to use a specific RGP solution for cleaning and another solution for filling the reservoir.

 

A Life-Changing Option for Post-Surgical Eyes

Scleral lenses are an incredible yet underutilized option for post-surgical patients. They offer visual clarity, comfort, relief from irritation, and protection for damaged or sensitive eyes. Do you believe being a good candidate for scleral contact lenses? If you are experiencing post-surgical vision problems, contact The Miami Lens Institute today to schedule an appointment and discuss your scleral lens options.