Who Is a Good Candidate for Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are an advanced form of contact lens technology designed to provide exceptional comfort and vision quality for patients who struggle with traditional lenses. Unlike standard contacts that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) and vault over the cornea, creating a tear-filled reservoir that helps improve both comfort and vision clarity. But who makes a good candidate for this type of lens? Let’s explore the most common reasons patients turn to scleral lenses.

Individuals with Irregular Corneas

People with corneal irregularities often find that glasses or standard contact lenses can’t fully correct their vision. Conditions such as keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration, or post-surgical corneal changes (like after LASIK or corneal transplants) can cause the cornea to become misshapen. Scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface that compensates for these irregularities, resulting in sharper, clearer vision.

Those with Severe Dry Eye

For patients struggling with chronic dry eye disease, scleral lenses can be life-changing. The liquid layer trapped beneath the lens provides continuous hydration to the cornea, reducing dryness, irritation, and sensitivity. This makes them an excellent solution for individuals who haven’t found relief from traditional treatments like artificial tears or punctal plugs.

Patients with High Prescriptions or Astigmatism

If you have high levels of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, scleral lenses can offer more stable and consistent vision correction. Because they don’t move around on the eye as much as soft lenses, they provide crisper vision and better alignment for people with complex prescriptions.

People with Corneal Scarring or Injury

Patients with corneal scarring or damage from infection, trauma, or surgery may benefit greatly from scleral lenses. The vaulting design prevents the lens from touching the damaged corneal surface, offering comfort and helping protect the eye while restoring functional vision.

Those Seeking Maximum Comfort and Stability

Even people without underlying eye conditions sometimes prefer scleral lenses simply for their comfort. Since they rest on less sensitive tissue and remain stable throughout the day, scleral lenses are less likely to cause irritation or discomfort than smaller, traditional lenses.

Discover If Scleral Lenses Are Right for You

Scleral lenses are an excellent solution for individuals who haven’t achieved clear, comfortable vision with traditional options. Whether you have an irregular cornea, dry eye disease, or a complex prescription, these lenses offer enhanced stability, protection, and visual clarity. With precise fitting and ongoing care, scleral lenses can significantly improve your day-to-day comfort and quality of vision.

If you’re wondering whether scleral lenses are right for you, schedule your consultation with Monroe Vision Clinic and take the next step toward clearer, more comfortable vision.  Contact our office in Monroe or Snohomish, Washington, by calling (360) 794-2020 to schedule a pediatric eye exam today.