Scleral Lenses

What are Scleral Lenses?

Advanced Vision and Relief for Dry Eye & Corneal Irregularities

If you've struggled with blurry vision, eye discomfort, or chronic dryness—especially after trying traditional contact lenses or eye drops—scleral lenses may be the solution you've been looking for. At Optic Gallery Fort Apache, we fit custom scleral lenses that can dramatically improve both comfort and clarity, particularly for those with dry eye disease or irregular corneal conditions.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are larger, gas-permeable contact lenses designed to vault over the entire surface of the cornea and rest gently on the white part of the eye (the sclera). Unlike standard soft contacts that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface and maintain a cushion of fluid between the lens and your eye.
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This unique design offers several key advantages:

• Crisp, stable vision for irregular or damaged corneas
  
  

• A protective barrier from wind, dust, and allergens
  
  

• All-day hydration for dry, irritated eyes
  
  

• Improved comfort for sensitive or post-surgical eyes
  
  

Longer wear time compared to other lenses.

How do Scleral Lenses help with Dry Eye?

One of the most transformative uses of scleral lenses is in managing moderate to severe dry eye disease. These lenses create a sealed, fluid-filled vault over the cornea, continuously bathing the eye in a layer of moisture.
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Scleral lenses are often recommended for patients who haven’t responded well to:

• Artificial tears or lubricating drops
  
  

• Punctal plugs
  
  

• Warm compresses or lid scrubs
  
  

• Prescription medications for dry eye
  
  

By preserving moisture and protecting the ocular surface, scleral lenses can:

• Reduce the need for frequent eye drop use
  
  

• Improve comfort throughout the day
  
  

• Prevent exposure to environmental irritants (like smoke, wind, and dry air)
  
  

• Promote healing in severe ocular surface disease
  
  

They are particularly helpful for patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, or ocular graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)—where dry eye can be especially severe and disabling.

Correcting Irregular Corneas with Scleral Lenses

In addition to treating dry eye, scleral lenses offer exceptional vision correction for individuals with irregular corneal surfaces, such as:

• Keratoconus
  
  

• Post-LASIK ectasia
  
  

• Pellucid marginal degeneration
  
  

• Corneal scars or injury
  
  

• Post-corneal transplant patients
  
  

Because scleral lenses don’t rely on the shape of the cornea to stay in place, they can effectively neutralize visual distortions and provide clear, stable vision even in advanced corneal disease. Many patients who were previously told they couldn’t wear contact lenses find that scleral lenses are not only tolerable—but life-changing.

Getting Fitted for Scleral Contact Lenses?

The fitting process for scleral lenses is customized and highly precise. Here's what to expect:

1. Comprehensive Eye Exam
   Your optometrist will perform detailed measurements of your corneal shape and ocular health using advanced imaging tools. This allows us to design lenses specifically tailored to your eye.
   
   

2. Trial Fitting and Lens Design
   We will test diagnostic lenses on your eyes to assess fit, comfort, and vision. Adjustments are made as needed before your custom lenses are ordered.
   
   

3. Lens Dispensing and Training
   Once your lenses arrive, we’ll walk you through insertion, removal, cleaning, and storage. The first few days may take some practice, but most patients quickly adapt.
   
   

Follow-Up Care
Regular follow-up visits are scheduled to fine-tune your lenses and ensure your eye health remains stable. As your eyes change over time, your lens fit may also be adjusted to maintain comfort and performance.

Are Scleral Lenses Right for You?

Scleral lenses are a powerful option for patients who haven’t found relief with traditional methods. While not suitable for everyone, they can be life-changing for those dealing with persistent dry eye, complex corneal conditions, or visual distortions that aren’t correctable with glasses or standard contacts.
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At Optic Gallery Fort Apache, we specialize in fitting advanced contact lenses that restore comfort and clarity—even in the most challenging cases.

Ready to explore if scleral lenses are right for you?

Schedule a dry eye or specialty contact lens consultation today. Our team is here to help you see and feel your best.

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