If you’ve struggled with regular contact lenses or have a hard-to-fit eye condition, scleral lenses might be the solution you didn’t know you needed. These specialty lenses aren’t as widely known as soft lenses, but they can make a huge difference in comfort and vision, especially if traditional contacts have been uncomfortable for you.
At EyeQ Optical, we’re proud to offer scleral contact lenses in Spokane Valley, WA, for patients who need something a little different to see clearly and comfortably.
What are scleral lenses?
Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas permeable contact lenses that rest on the white part of your eye (the sclera) rather than directly on the cornea. They create a tear-filled chamber between the lens and your eye, which smooths out irregularities and keeps your eye hydrated throughout the day.
Because they vault over the cornea, scleral lenses don’t touch the sensitive surface of the eye. This makes them incredibly comfortable for people with conditions that cause corneal irregularities or chronic dryness.
What makes scleral lenses different?
Compared to regular soft or rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, scleral lenses offer several unique benefits:
- Exceptional comfort, even for sensitive or dry eyes
- Stable, clear vision, even with irregular corneas
- Custom-fit for your unique eye shape
- Hydration boost for eyes that don’t produce enough tears
They may take a little more practice to insert and remove, but most people quickly adjust and love the clarity and comfort they get in return.
Who can benefit from scleral lenses?
Scleral lenses are ideal for people with certain eye conditions or vision challenges that make regular soft contact lenses uncomfortable or ineffective. You might be a good candidate for scleral contact lenses if you have:
Keratoconus
This condition causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape, distorting vision and making soft lenses hard to wear. Scleral lenses provide a smooth optical surface and help protect the cornea.
Dry eye disease
If your eyes are constantly dry, irritated, or sensitive to wind and digital screens, scleral lenses can offer significant relief. The fluid reservoir beneath the lens helps keep your eyes moist and comfortable all day long.
Post-surgical corneas
After LASIK, PRK, or corneal transplant surgery, your cornea may be more irregular than before. In these cases, scleral lenses can provide better vision and comfort than traditional soft lenses.
High astigmatism
When an irregularly shaped cornea causes blurred or distorted vision, scleral lenses can often provide more precise vision correction than soft lenses.
Contact lens intolerance
If regular lenses leave your eyes red, irritated, or constantly uncomfortable, it might not be your fault; it could just be the wrong lens type. Scleral lenses could be your solution.
Visit us today to explore your options
If your current contacts aren’t working well for you, or if you’ve been told you’re not a good candidate for lenses at all, don’t give up hope. At EyeQ Optical, we offer specialty contact lenses in Spokane Valley, including scleral lenses, to help patients experience comfortable, crystal-clear vision.
We take the time to get to know your eyes, lifestyle, and vision goals so we can recommend the best contact lenses for your unique needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let us help you see clearly and comfortably with contacts.