Scleral Lenses in Kansas City, MO

What Are Scleral Lenses & How Do They Work?

Scleral lenses are rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, they are recommended for people suffering from corneal irregularities or other corneal issues. Unlike standard gas permeable lenses, scleral contact lenses cover the entire cornea and rest on the “white” of the eye called the sclera. Because of this, scleral lenses are more comfortable and stable, and, unlike hard to fit contacts, function as a new corneal surface for patients who suffer from an irregularly shaped cornea, allowing them to have clearer vision. Scleral lenses also aid in relieving dry eye symptoms as they act as a reservoir for a sterile saline solution, keeping the eye in a constant liquid climate. Some scleral lenses are fully customizable to target your symptoms and correct your vision. Each patient is unique and they should be treated accordingly. With scleral lens options at Discover Vision, we have the custom treatment for your needs.

Who Should Wear Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses can be used to treat a range of symptoms and conditions:

• After surgery. If you are experiencing complications or irritations from surgeries such as LASIK, PRK, or Corneal Cross-Linking, Scleral lenses may ease discomfort 
• Hard-to-fit eyes. If your eyes are sensitive to regular contact lenses, scleral lenses cover a larger area of the eye and are more stable, providing a more comfortable fit for your eye
• Keratoconus. Since they don’t rest on the cornea, scleral lenses provide space and comfort for those suffering from keratoconus
• Astigmatism. Scleral lenses provide a smooth surface over an irregular cornea, helping to sharpen and correct vision
• Chronic Dry Eye. Scleral lenses keep the cornea constantly moisturized with a sterile saline solution, making them a perfect option for those who suffer from severe dry eye

If you suffer from any of these conditions, scleral lenses may be the right fit for you.

Scleral Lenses Benefits

Scleral lenses have various advantages over traditional contact lenses. Here we have listed some of the benefits of scleral contact lenses.

• Comfortable. Scleral lenses have a larger diameter than corneal lenses, covering more surface area and resting on the white (sclera) of the eye, instead of the cornea, the most sensitive part of the eye
• Stable. The scleral lens’s larger diameter prevents it from shifting on the eye, allowing it to stay centered and stable
• Moisturizing. Scleral lenses have a pocket behind the lens that houses sterile saline fluid, which constantly moisturizes the eye
• Customizable. Scleral lenses are customizable to your specific needs
• Protective. Because of the larger diameter, scleral lenses help protect the eye against outside irritants such as allergies, dust and other debris