While wearing contact lenses can be more convenient than eyeglasses for many, some people have conditions that severely restrict their contact lens options. Fortunately, scleral lenses can help people with conditions like dry eye syndrome or corneal irregularities wear contacts safely and comfortably. Vision Associates of Westland in Westland, MI, is here to tell you more about scleral lenses and how they can help you.
What Are Scleral Lenses?
Scleral contacts are rigid gas-permeable lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, otherwise known as the white part of your eye. Unlike soft contacts that fit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses do not touch the cornea. These lenses also have a saline solution that fills the space between the lens and the cornea. Because of this, people with conditions like dry eye syndrome, irregular astigmatism, and keratoconus often benefit from scleral lenses.
Scleral Lens Fitting Process
The first step toward getting scleral lenses is to schedule an eye exam with our eye doctors. We will evaluate your eyes and determine if you are a candidate for scleral lenses. Once we confirm you can wear these contacts safely and comfortably, we will measure your eyes and have you try on different lenses to see which fit. The fitting process will also include the following:
• Selecting the best lens material, parameters, and refractive power for your needs
• Teaching proper insertion, removal, and care techniques
• Follow-up exams to ensure ideal comfort, vision, and healthy wear
Benefits of Scleral Lens Wear
Scleral lenses offer various benefits compared to traditional soft contact lenses. One of the primary benefits is that scleral lenses provide sharper vision than other contact types. These lenses create a smooth optical surface over the cornea, granting you clearer vision than standard contacts. Scleral lenses are also more comfortable for people with dry eyes or irregular corneas since they do not touch the cornea. An additional benefit for dry eye sufferers is that scleral contacts trap moisture, keeping the eyes lubricated better than standard lenses.
Get Scleral Lenses Today at Vision Associates of Westland
If you have dry eyes or corneal irregularities that make wearing traditional contacts challenging or impossible, consider contacting Vision Associates of Westland in Westland, MI. Our eye doctors can fit you for scleral lenses and help you see clearly and comfortably again, so call us and schedule an eye exam at (734) 326-2160 if you live in the areas of Westland, Canton, Plymouth, Livonia, Garden City, or Wayne, MI, and need dry eye treatment today.
