How Do Scleral Lenses Differ From Regular Contact Lenses?

Various types of contact lenses are available. That is because vision correction and eye comfort needs and preferences differ. Some people prefer the comfort and convenience of soft contact lenses. 

Others need the sharper vision correction that hard or rigid gas-permeable lenses provide. Some people need contacts designed for all-day and overnight wear. Others only need them during the day. 

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are rigid, gas-permeable lenses designed to cover the entire cornea. They extend over the white part of the eye. So, they have a larger diameter than standard contacts. Furthermore, they allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea.

These lenses work to correct conditions that regular contact lenses cannot correct. Eye doctors recommend them for patients with irregularly shaped or damaged corneas. These include those with keratoconus or people who underwent a corneal transplant. They can also help treat dry eye syndrome and protect the eye when the eyelid does not close completely.

Scleral lenses are custom-made to fit each wearer's eye. That said, it may take a while to get used to them. They require special care and handling. That entails using a particular disinfecting solution and careful cleaning and handling. You should follow the recommended maintenance and use instructions the eye doctor provides to ensure proper use and good eye health.

Differences Between Scleral and Regular Contact Lenses

Customization

Scleral lenses are custom-made to fit the individual wearer's eye. But regular contact lenses come in various sizes and prescriptions, and it may be easier to adjust to them.

Material

The material used to make scleral lenses is rigid and gas-permeable, allowing oxygen to enter the cornea. The one used to make regular contact lenses is a soft, flexible hydrogel material.

Shape and Size

Scleral lenses differ from regular contacts in diameter size. Normal contacts have a smaller diameter than scleral lenses. Scleral lenses cover the entire cornea and extend over the white part of the eye. 

Purpose

Scleral lenses can help correct vision problems and conditions that regular contact lenses or eyeglasses cannot adequately correct. They are ideal for patients with irregularly shaped or damaged corneas. They can also help treat dry eye syndrome and provide protection when the eyelid does not close completely. Regular contact lenses correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

Handling and Care

Scleral lenses require special handling and care, including the following:

• The use of a special disinfecting solution.
• Careful cleaning and handling to avoid damaging the lenses.
• Regular contact lenses are generally easier to care for and handle, making them more suitable for daily use.

Overall, the various types of lenses available enable people to select the best option for their specific needs and preferences. To ensure proper use and eye health, consult an eye doctor to determine the best type of contact lenses for your particular needs. It is essential to follow the recommended care and use instructions for the lenses.

For more on scleral lenses, visit Carousel Eyecare at our Houston, Texas, office. Call (281) 666-9835 to schedule an appointment today.