Posted by: Dr. Ramsarat in Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses are wide contact lenses made of a unique material that lets air through. These wide gas-permeable (GP) lenses rest on the white of the eye (sclera) and cover the entire surface of the cornea.
Unlike scleral lenses, regular GP lenses do not cover the whole surface of the cornea. That makes standard GP lenses unstable and more likely to be accidentally knocked out of place. If you cannot wear standard contact lenses because of irregular corneas or other eye complications, you can use scleral lenses.
Will scleral lenses last you long enough to enjoy their benefits?
How Long Do Scleral Lenses Last?
With proper care and maintenance, scleral lenses can last up to three years. That makes them a practical choice for many contact lens wearers.
You can wear scleral lenses comfortably throughout the day—sometimes, for up to 16 hours a day. Optometrists recommend removing your scleral lenses at night to let your eyes breathe and rest. It is also crucial to clean the lenses and store them properly when not in use.
Why Do People Wear Scleral Lenses?
- Scleral lenses help people have the sharpest vision possible with fewer risks of complications. They are especially helpful in treating the following eye problems:
- Irregularly-shaped corneas. Irregular corneas can be caused by genetics, side effects of eye surgery, or eye problems such as keratoconus. Soft contact lenses or eyeglasses cannot fully correct corneal irregularities. Scleral lenses provide better vision for such eyes.
- Dry eyes. If you cannot use regular contact lenses because your eyes are too dry, scleral lenses can assist. The lenses are big enough to cover your entire cornea, guarding your eyes against irritants such as dust, smoke, wind, and other fragments.
- Also, the area between the scleral lens and the cornea is filled with a saline solution that keeps your eyes hydrated and comfortable.
- Hard-to-fit eyes. If regular GP contact lenses cannot fit your eyes, scleral lenses can offer a more secure and comfortable fit.
How Often Should You Replace Your Scleral Lenses?
You need to replace your contact lenses after two to three years, depending on their state. Replacing your scleral lenses regularly lowers the risk of eye infections. It also ensures that the visual surface of the lenses remains even and clear.
How Do You Know When To Replace Your Scleral Lenses?
- You know you need to replace your scleral lenses when:
- Your prescription expires.
- The lenses get scraped or scratched.
- Your eyes change shape and fit.
- Your eye power changes.
- Also, many people replace their scleral lenses when they crack or break. Scleral lenses almost always break when pressed too hard during cleaning. To avoid that, clean your lenses using your ring or pinky finger.
Talk To Your Eye Doctor
If you need to learn more about scleral lenses and whether they are a good fit for you, contact your eye doctor. If your current contact lenses are hurting your eyes or
you just want to see if scleral lenses are better, your eye doctor will help you find what you need to care for your eyes.
For more on scleral lenses, visit Dr. Veronica Ramsarat OD at our office in New York, New York. You can also call (212) 808-4888 to book an appointment today.
