Scleral Lenses
Scleral contact lenses are a specialized type of contact lens used for managing a variety of eye conditions. They are twice the size of a standard gas permeable contact lens and larger than a typical soft contact lens, with a diameter between 16-20mm.
Scleral contact lenses are custom made for each eye.
They are designed so the lens rests on the less sensitive white sclera and vaults over the cornea. The lenses are fit to allow no movement. These characteristics allow the lens to be immediately comfortable.
A unique property of the scleral lens is that the vaulted section is filled with a fluid reservoir which acts as a liquid bandage to help treat extremely dry or diseased corneas. Patients who suffer from dry eye, Sjogren’s syndrome, Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD), neurotrophic keratitis, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome can be helped with the use of scleral contact lenses. The fluid reservoir also masks irregularities of the cornea which can dramatically improve the vision in a patient who has diseased or traumatized eyes, such as patients who have keratoconus or have had a corneal transplant. It is not uncommon for someone who is legally blind from corneal irregularity to regain near perfect vision from wearing scleral lenses.
For printable scleral lens insertion and removal instructions Click Here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Scleral lenses are large, custom contact lenses used when glasses, soft lenses, or smaller gas-permeable lenses cannot give clear, comfortable vision. They are typically 16–20 mm in diameter — about twice the size of a standard gas-permeable lens and larger than a typical soft lens.
The lens rests on the white of the eye (the sclera) and vaults over the cornea. It is fit so it does not move. The space under the lens is filled with a fluid reservoir. That reservoir acts as a liquid bandage for a dry or damaged cornea, and it also masks corneal irregularity so vision can improve.
Patients are commonly fit for:
- Keratoconus and other irregular corneas
- After corneal transplant or corneal trauma
- Severe dry eye, Sjögren’s syndrome, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), neurotrophic keratitis, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Dr. DeNaeyer uses a modern scleral lens design and fitting technique that streamlines the fitting process. sMap3D corneo-scleral topography is used to to fit custom scleral lenses to fit each individual eye. This process is a very efficient way to produce custom scleral lenses that are less costly.
If you are being fit with scleral lenses out of medical necessity, we will inquire if your insurance policy covers specialty contact lens fitting and materials. We do offer financing options through CareCredit.
Please call the office at 614.228.4700 for an appointment!
Take Charge of Your Eye Health
At The Scleral Lens Center, we’re committed to helping you achieve comfortable, clear vision.
If you’re experiencing symptoms, schedule a consultation today.