Thanks to advances in contact lens technology, people who previously wouldn’t have been candidates for contacts due to visual health abnormalities can now enjoy the benefits of this corrective eyewear option. One such advance has produced scleral lenses, which are larger than regular contact lenses. Here, your local eye doctor from Park Slope Eye discusses the features and benefits of scleral lenses.
Features and Types
While regular contact lenses usually have a 9-9.5 mm diameter, scleral lenses can go from 14.5 mm up to 24 mm. This feature allows them to cover your entire cornea, even extending to the white part of your eyes (sclera). They are often made of rigid gas permeable plastics with a fluid reservoir to maintain your eyes’ lubrication and comfort.
There are three general types of scleral lenses. Corneo- or semi-scleral contacts are larger than GP lenses with a size of 13 to 15 mm, allowing them to settle in between your sclera and cornea. Mini-scleral contact lenses can totally envelop your corneal surface with their 18 mm diameter, and rest on the front part of your sclera. Lastly, full scleral lenses have the widest diameter, giving more than enough clearance for your cornea and lens.
Qualified Candidates
Individuals with hard-to-fit eyes or conditions resulting from unevenly surfaced cornea are good candidates for scleral lenses. The large surface area of these lenses acts as a substitute for the irregularly shaped cornea, allowing light to pass through seamlessly. People with dry eyes may also benefit from the tear reservoir that scleral lenses offer.
Benefits
The large size of scleral lenses makes them more stable than conventional contacts, reducing the risk of your contacts accidently dislodging from your eyes. This feature also means they won’t move around as much in your eyes. They are composed of a gas-permeable material with a fluid pouch that helps maintain your visual health. You can expect wider visual coverage, fixed placement, and lasting eye comfort with scleral lenses.
For reliable eye care services, turn to Park Slope Eye. In addition to scleral lenses, we also offer comprehensive eye exams, vision therapy, and more. Schedule an appointment to visit us and learn more. We serve Brooklyn, Park Slope, and nearby areas in New York.
