Some Common Things That You Should Know About Scleral Lens Contacts
Scleral lenses are specialized contact lenses that offer unique benefits for individuals with certain eye conditions. This article addresses common questions about scleral lenses, providing insights into their suitability, cost, care, and daily use.
Introduction to Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses have become an effective solution for various eye conditions that cannot be adequately corrected with traditional lenses or glasses. Unlike standard lenses that sit on the cornea, scleral lenses vault over the cornea and sit on the sclera (white part of the eye), hence creating a fluid reservoir between the lens and the cornea. This design helps improve vision clarity, comfort, and stability for many patients.
Who Can Wear a Scleral Lens?
Scleral lenses are recommended for individuals with specific eye conditions such as keratoconus, irregular astigmatism, corneal ectasia, and severe dry eye syndrome. These conditions often result in irregularities or cornea thinning, making it difficult to achieve clear vision with traditional methods. Scleral lenses offer a smooth optical surface that compensates for corneal irregularities, improving visual acuity and reducing symptoms of glare and halos.
The design of scleral lenses also makes them suitable for patients who have undergone corneal surgeries or have corneal scarring. By maintaining a constant layer of fluid between the lens and the eye, scleral lenses protect the delicate corneal tissue and provide continuous hydration, which benefits individuals with chronic dry eye.
Is a Scleral Lens Costly?
The cost of scleral lenses may vary depending on various factors, including the type of lens material, design complexity, and the expertise of the eye care provider fitting them. Due to their specialized design and custom fitting process, scleral lenses may have a higher initial cost than standard contact lenses. However, many patients find the benefits of improved vision quality, enhanced comfort, and long-term durability justify the investment.
It is essential to consider the long-term savings associated with scleral lenses, such as the reduced need for frequent lens replacements and potential savings on other vision correction methods. Depending on the medical necessity and individual policy terms, some insurance plans may also provide coverage for scleral lenses.
Who Can’t Wear a Scleral Lens?
While scleral lenses offer significant benefits for many patients with complex vision needs, only some are suitable candidates for this type of contact lens. Individuals with severe eye infections, active inflammatory conditions affecting the eye, or significant corneal scarring may not be able to wear scleral lenses comfortably or safely.
Patients with difficulty handling or inserting contact lenses due to dexterity issues or those with severe dry eye syndrome that cannot be adequately managed with artificial tears may also find scleral lenses challenging to wear. It’s essential for individuals considering scleral lenses to undergo a complete eye examination and consultation with an experienced optometrist to determine their candidacy for this specialized treatment.
Should You Sleep with Scleral Lenses?
Sleeping with scleral lenses is generally not recommended unless specifically prescribed by your eye care provider. While scleral lenses, due to their design, provide ample oxygen to the cornea, wearing them continuously without removal can increase the risk of complications such as corneal edema (swelling) and infection. Proper lens care involves removing, cleaning, and disinfecting the lenses daily to maintain eye health and ensure comfortable wear.
Extended wear of scleral lenses overnight should only be considered under the guidance and supervision of your eye doctor, who can monitor your eye health and provide instructions for safe use. Patients who experience discomfort, redness, or vision changes while wearing scleral lenses should remove them immediately and seek prompt evaluation from their eye care provider.
If You Cry with a Contact Lens In, Will it hurt?
Crying with scleral lenses may cause discomfort due to the accumulation of tears behind the lens. Scleral lenses are designed to create a barrier that holds a reservoir of saline solution against the eye, which can help mitigate some discomfort during emotional or environmental triggers.
However, excessive tearing or prolonged exposure to tears may affect the fit and comfort of scleral lenses, leading to temporary discomfort or lens movement. Suppose you experience persistent pain or irritation while wearing scleral lenses. Removing and rinsing the lenses with a saline solution is essential to alleviate symptoms and ensure proper eye hydration.
How Many Hours Maximum Can You Wear Scleral Lenses?
The maximum recommended wear time for scleral lenses varies depending on individual eye health, comfort level, and the specific lens design. Most patients can safely wear scleral lenses for up to 12-14 hours a day, with regular breaks and proper lens care routines.
Your eye care provider will offer specific instructions based on your eye anatomy, tear film stability, and lifestyle factors to optimize the wearing schedule of scleral lenses. Prolonged wear beyond recommended guidelines may increase the risk of eye fatigue, dryness, and discomfort, emphasizing the importance of adhering to prescribed wear and care routines.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, scleral lenses offer a valuable vision correction option for individuals with specific eye conditions that may not be adequately addressed with traditional lenses or glasses. Understanding the suitability, cost considerations, and proper care practices associated with scleral lenses is crucial for ensuring comfortable and practical use. Consultation with a nearby eye doctor or optometrist specializing in scleral lenses, such as Dr. Allyson Tang Optometrist – Vaughan, can provide personalized guidance and recommendations tailored to your eye health needs.
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Discover if scleral lenses are right for you! Contact our dentist, your trusted eye clinic specializing in scleral lenses in Woodbridge optometry. Schedule a consultation today to explore how scleral lenses can improve your vision and life quality.