Scleral contact lenses are large contact lenses that rest on the sclera (white part of the eye) and vault over the cornea, mainly designed to treat several eye conditions many of which do not respond to the conventional way of treatment.

The use of Scleral lenses composes of two groups; those who require the lenses for medical reasons and for refractive purposes.

The use of Scleral lenses is mainly indicated for patients with the following needs;

• Keratoconus; this is a condition where the cornea (the thin clear tissue covering the eye) bulges out. 

• Individuals who have had complications from corneal transplants/grafts.

• Those who have had no success with the RGP Lenses (Rigid gas permeable lenses) issues possibly experienced such as; lens decentration, foreign bodies getting trapped under the lens.

• Dry Eye; individuals with dry eye related symptoms that have a significant refractive error, advantages of this use is that these lenses do not dehydrate on the corneal surface unlike soft contact lenses, and provide a reservoir of liquid under the lens, which can provide continuous lubrication.

• Chemical Burns.

• Patient recovering from Radial Keratotomy (RK); this is a procedure that involves cutting into the cornea o correct myopia.

• Complications from LASIK (a type of refractive surgery for the correction of myopia)

• Individuals with Astigmatism (common condition that causes blurred vision, where the cornea is irregularly shaped or due to the curvature of the lens inside. Those with moderate to very high astigmatism can benefit greatly, where the conventional soft lenses and RGP have failed to provide stable and comfortable vision.

• Corneal Ectasia (a condition that causes thinning of the clear corneal tissue)

Still not sure? At Spectacle Warehouse Optometrist we are more than happy to tell you more about Scleral lenses as well as give you professional advice on whether you are a good candidate or not. This service is available at all four branches. Contact us today to book your appointment.