Scleral Contact Lenses Specialist

What are scleral contact lenses?

Scleral contact lenses rest on the white part of your eye, also known as the sclera. They’re larger than standard contact lenses and “vault” over the entire surface of your cornea. The design maintains a layer of fluid between the back of your lens and your cornea, which keeps your eyes hydrated.

Scleral lenses are less likely to become loose or fall out than standard contact lenses. They’re an option for many people who are unable to wear regular contact lenses. If you have “hard-to-fit” eyes, scleral lenses may still fit comfortably. 

The optometrists at Gold Canyon Eye Center recommend scleral lenses to people with irregular corneas, as well as people who have:

• Severe dry eyes caused by Sjogren's syndrome, graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)

• High refractive error or astigmatism

• Keratoconus

• Cornea transplants

• Radial Keratotomy (RK)

Even if you don’t have a diagnosed eye condition, scleral contact lenses may help. Ask your eye doctor if scleral lenses may be right for you.  

Scleral Lens Fitting Process

Step 1:  Map the eye using sMap3D™

The sMap3D™ uses up to 1 million measurements as it non-invasively maps the eye.  We use the sMap3D™ to capture images in the three gazes.

Step 2:  Determine the prescription for optimal vision

We use a diagnostic scleral lens and place it on the eye.  With an over-refraction we gather information that will be used to determine the power in the custom scleral lens.

Step 3:  Design the Scleral Lens

The doctor will use the data collected to design the best possible lens and submit it to the lab for manufacturing.

Step 4:  Pick up the lens

The patient will pick up their custom scleral lens and will be taught how to insert, remove and care for them.   The doctor will also do the first initial check of the lenses on the eye and schedule a follow-up with the lenses in for 6 hours.

How do I take care of scleral contact lenses?

Your optometrist provides instructions for handling and cleaning your scleral lenses. Some tips to ensure your eyes stay healthy and your lenses are comfortable includes:

• Clean your lenses every night with an approved solution

• Don’t put in preserved eye drops while wearing scleral lenses

• Wait until your lenses are safely in your eyes before putting on makeup or face cream

• Replace the lens application device at least once every three months

• Remove your lenses if your eyes hurt or are uncomfortable

• Let your eye doctor know if your vision becomes foggy or cloudy

To learn more about scleral contact lenses, call Gold Canyon Eye Center or schedule an appointment online today. You can also visit ScleralLens.Org for additional information.