Introduction

Vision is one of our most important senses, yet not all corrective lenses work for every individual. People with irregular corneas, keratoconus, or severe dry eye often struggle to find comfortable and effective vision correction. Standard glasses or soft contact lenses may fail to provide clear and stable vision.

This is where scleral contact lenses come into play. Designed to vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye), these lenses provide a smooth optical surface, exceptional comfort, and remarkable visual clarity.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about scleral contact lenses, including finding scleral lenses near me and understanding the scleral contact lenses cost.

What Are Scleral Contact Lenses?

Scleral contact lenses are large-diameter rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses that differ significantly from standard soft or traditional RGP lenses.

  • Design: Unlike small RGP lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses vault over the cornea, creating a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the eye. This provides hydration and protects sensitive corneal surfaces.
  • Material: Made from oxygen-permeable materials, scleral lenses allow the cornea to “breathe” while maintaining comfort.
  • Customization: Each lens is tailored to fit the unique curvature of the patient’s eye, making them ideal for complex eye conditions.

Who Can Benefit From Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are versatile and effective for a variety of eye conditions:

  1. Keratoconus: Patients with irregular, cone-shaped corneas achieve dramatically improved vision.
  2. Post-Surgical Eyes: After LASIK, corneal transplants, or other eye surgeries, scleral lenses provide stable vision correction.
  3. Severe Dry Eyes: The tear reservoir under the lens keeps the eye hydrated throughout the day.
  4. Irregular Astigmatism: Individuals with uneven corneal surfaces gain clear, consistent vision.
  5. Other Ocular Surface Diseases: Including conditions that cause scarring, thinning, or irregularity of the cornea.

Finding Scleral Lenses Near Me

If you are considering scleral lenses, it’s important to find an experienced specialist. Searching for “scleral lenses near me” can help locate local eye care providers who:

  • Specialize in custom scleral lens fitting
  • Have advanced diagnostic equipment like corneal topographers
  • Offer follow-up care and adjustments for optimal results

Local clinics specializing in scleral contact lenses often provide personalized care and extended appointments to ensure the lens fits properly and vision is optimized.

Conclusion

Scleral contact lenses provide a superior solution for patients with complex vision challenges. With proper fitting and care, these lenses can dramatically improve clarity, comfort, and quality of life. While the scleral contact lenses cost may be higher than standard lenses, the benefits for vision and eye health often justify the investment.