What are scleral lenses?

Scleral lenses are special gas-permeable contact lens devices that are a large diameter and sit on the sclera of the eye. Rather than sitting directly on the eye like a traditional soft contact lens, these devices vault over it so that the eye has fluid retained over it. By vaulting over the eye, we are able to manage several kinds of complicated eye conditions.

Our patient was referred to us by their cornea surgeon for a scleral lens evaluation and consultation. She has severe keratoconus in one eye, and the other eye underwent a cornea transplant.

We were able to correct her vision from 20/200 to 20/25 in the eye with keratoconus and to 20/20 in the eye with a cornea transplant.

What are scleral lenses used for?

All sorts of reasons! They can be used to correct complex vision issues such as for keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration, high astigmatism, high nearsightedness or farsightedness, corneal scarring, or post-surgical eyes. They can also be used for ocular surface issues such as dry eye, Bell’s palsy, incomplete lid closure, recurrent corneal erosion, and Sjogren’s Syndrome.

What should I expect from the scleral lens process?

At our office, we schedule a consultation appointment first to learn about your eye health history, take scans of your eyes, and discuss your needs. If you are new to scleral lenses, we may put on a “demo” scleral lens device to check the vision potential of your eyes, as well as to see if the eyes feel better if you suffer from dry eye. If we determine that you are a candidate and proceed with scleral lenses, Dr. Seif then orders a unique, custom designed lens and adjusts it until the most optimal vision and fit is achieved. We also schedule a dedicated visit for insertion and removal training, discuss proper solutions, wearing time, and everything necessary to manage your condition and the supplies needed.

  • This patient had recurrent corneal erosions which result in dry eye. They were taking multiple artificial tears and ointments, prescription eye drops, and other dry eye treatments with minimal relief. This picture shows significant dryness and striations of an incomplete tear film and very dry eye.

  • They were referred to us for a consultation in which they were fitted in a scleral lens device. This picture shows a scleral lens protecting the dry eye. The patient is now able to open the eye comfortably.

  • The scleral lens provided protection to the cornea and was not aggravated by blinking forces, while also allowing the eye to bathe in fluid all day. Their cornea was able to heal after one month of wear and they did not need to use eye drops or ointment as often. This picture, with the scleral lens removed, shows improved corneal health and fewer dry patches after 3 weeks of wear.

If you would like to see if you are a scleral lens candidate, request an appointment for a consultation here: