What Are Scleral Lenses? The Ultimate Solution for Hard-to-Fit Eyes

For many people, standard contact lenses provide excellent vision correction. But for those with unique eye shapes, corneal irregularities, or chronic eye conditions, traditional lenses may not offer the comfort or clarity they need. That’s where scleral lenses come in. These advanced specialty lenses are often referred to as the ultimate solution for hard-to-fit eyes.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter, gas-permeable contact lenses designed to vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). Unlike standard contacts that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses create a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the eye’s surface, providing clear, stable vision and unmatched comfort.

Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are especially beneficial for patients with conditions that make traditional lenses difficult or impossible to wear. They are commonly recommended for individuals with:

• Keratoconus or other corneal irregularities

• Post-surgical eyes, including after corneal transplants or LASIK complications

• Severe dry eye syndrome, offering lasting hydration and relief

• High prescriptions or astigmatism that standard lenses cannot correct

• Sensitive eyes that struggle with traditional soft lenses

Key Benefits of Scleral Lenses

• Superior Comfort: The fluid layer beneath the lens acts as a cushion, reducing irritation and dryness.

• Crisp, Stable Vision: By vaulting over corneal irregularities, scleral lenses provide sharper, more consistent vision.

• Protection for the Eyes: The tear-filled reservoir helps protect the cornea and promotes eye health.

• Customized Fit: Each lens is designed to match the unique shape of your eye, ensuring the best results.

What to Expect During the Scleral Lens Fitting Process

At Belding Family Eye Care, our scleral lens fitting process is designed to be thorough, precise, and personalized to ensure the best possible outcome for your vision and comfort. The process begins with a comprehensive eye examination, where our optometrists carefully evaluate the health of your eyes and measure the exact shape and curvature of your cornea. This step is crucial in identifying whether scleral lenses are the right option for your needs and in designing a lens that will fit seamlessly.

Next, we use specialized imaging and diagnostic technology to map the surface of your eye. This allows us to create a highly customized lens that vaults perfectly over your cornea while resting comfortably on the sclera. The tear-filled reservoir that forms beneath the lens not only enhances clarity but also provides soothing relief for those with chronic dryness or sensitivity.

Once your lenses are crafted, we’ll guide you through the fitting and training process. You’ll learn how to insert and remove the lenses, care for them properly, and adjust to the new experience of wearing them. Our team will also schedule follow-up visits to fine-tune the fit and ensure that your lenses are delivering the sharp vision and comfort you deserve.

Transform Your Vision and Comfort at Belding Family Eye Care

If you’ve struggled with standard contact lenses or glasses, scleral lenses may be the perfect solution. With their customized design, unparalleled comfort, and ability to address complex vision needs, scleral lenses are helping patients enjoy clear vision and healthier eyes every day.

Schedule your eye exam at Belding Family Eye Care to find out if scleral lenses are the right choice for you. Visit our office in Belding, Michigan, or call (616) 794-9088 to book an appointment today.