Scleral Lenses for Keratoconus Treatment

Are you familiar with scleral lenses? They are a kind of contact lens that can help treat keratoconus. Do you know what keratoconus is? It is a condition in which the cornea thins and forms a conelike shape, causing distorted vision. It can be a frustrating condition. 
 

Scleral lenses can help improve vision and reduce discomfort. It would be helpful to know what scleral lenses are, how they function, and why they might be a good option for people with keratoconus.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

These lenses are larger in diameter than traditional lenses. They cover the entire cornea, resting on the white of the eye, the sclera. They are an excellent choice for people with keratoconus or other corneal irregularities. Unlike conventional lenses, they do not touch the cornea.

How Do Scleral Lenses Help Keratoconus?

The lenses provide a smooth and regular surface for the cornea to rest on. This improves vision for individuals with keratoconus. The lenses fit the unique shape of your eye, making them effective and comfortable.
 

Additionally, scleral lenses create a saline solution-filled space between the lens and the cornea. The space acts as a cushion, providing a protective barrier that reduces the discomfort and irritation caused by keratoconus.

Benefits of Scleral Lenses for Keratoconus

For people with keratoconus, scleral lenses offer several advantages, including the following:
 

• Improved Vision
   

Scleral lenses offer more precise and sharper vision than conventional contacts or glasses. This is particularly so for people with severe keratoconus.
 

• Greater Comfort
   

Since they fit the unique shape of each individual's eye, scleral lenses provide a custom fit that is comfortable and reduces irritation.
 

• Protection
   

A saline solution fills the space between the lens and the cornea. This provides a cushion that reduces irritation and discomfort caused by keratoconus.
 

• Longer Wear Time
   

Scleral lenses are an excellent option if you need to wear lenses for a long time. The lenses are specifically designed to let users wear them longer than traditional contact lenses.

What to Expect During the Fitting Process

The fitting process involves several appointments with an eye care professional. The doctor will examine both eyes thoroughly and the cornea's shape at the first appointment. The aim is to determine if scleral lenses are a good option.
 

If they are, the eye doctor will take eye measurements and create a custom lens that fits the unique shape of the individual's eye. The individual will then return for a fitting appointment. The eye doctor will insert the lens and check comfort and effectiveness.
 

After the fitting appointment, the individual must return for follow-up appointments. The aim is to ensure that the lens is still fitting correctly and providing the desired level of vision correction.

Conclusion

Scleral lenses offer a promising treatment option for individuals with keratoconus. By providing a custom fit that is comfortable and effective, they can improve vision and reduce discomfort caused by keratoconus.
 

If you have keratoconus and want to try scleral lenses, it is best to consult an eye doctor who specializes in the treatment. If properly cared for, they can provide you with a long-term solution.
 

For more on scleral lenses, visit Eye Care North at our Cave Creek, Arizona office. Call 480-781-4446 to schedule an appointment today.