When dealing with chronic dry eyes or certain corneal conditions, even the best soft contact lenses may not deliver the comfort and relief you need. Scleral lenses offer an innovative solution, providing both protection and hydration for sensitive eyes. Here’s how they work to shield and hydrate your eyes and why they’re becoming a go-to choice for many patients.
 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter, gas-permeable contact lenses designed to rest on the sclera (the white part of your eye) instead of the cornea. Because of their size and shape, they vault over the sensitive corneal surface and create a reservoir of fluid between the lens and the eye.
 

Hydration: A Key Benefit

One of the most significant advantages of scleral lenses is their ability to keep the eye moist. Before applying the lens, it is filled with sterile saline solution. When placed on the eye, this solution stays in place, bathing the cornea throughout the day. This constant hydration is especially beneficial for individuals with dry eye syndrome, ocular surface disease, or those who have trouble with conventional lenses.
 

Protection Against Irritation and Damage

The unique design of scleral lenses means that they don’t touch the cornea directly. Instead, the lens vaults over it, shielding the delicate corneal tissue from exposure to dust, wind, and environmental irritants. For patients with corneal irregularities, scars, or conditions like keratoconus, scleral lenses provide a protective barrier that can enhance comfort and vision.
 

Stable, Clear Vision

Because scleral lenses are larger and more stable than traditional lenses, they are less likely to move out of place. This stability helps provide consistent, sharp vision throughout the day. The smooth optical surface created by the lens also corrects for corneal irregularities, improving visual clarity for many patients.
 

Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are often recommended for individuals who:
 

•          Suffer from severe dry eye or ocular surface disease

•          Have keratoconus or other irregular corneal conditions

•          Experience discomfort with standard contact lenses

•          Need extra protection for their eyes due to chronic irritation or sensitivity

Take the Next Step at Alamo Eye Care

Scleral lenses represent a breakthrough in both vision correction and eye protection. By providing a cushion of moisture and a barrier against the environment, these lenses offer comfort and clear vision to people who may have struggled with other options. If you’re looking for a solution to chronic dry eye, corneal irregularities, or simply want to experience more comfortable vision, scleral lenses might be the answer.
 

Schedule an eye exam with Alamo Eye Care to learn if scleral lenses are right for you. Contact our office in San Antonio or Austin, Texas, by calling (210) 403-9050 to book an appointment today.