How Scleral Lenses Help Keratoconus Patients Achieve Clear Vision

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape, leading to distorted vision that can’t be corrected with standard glasses or soft contact lenses. For patients living with this condition, achieving clear, stable vision can feel like a constant challenge. Fortunately, scleral lenses offer a life-changing solution.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter, gas-permeable contact lenses that vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the white part of the eye, called the sclera. Unlike traditional lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses create a fluid-filled chamber between the lens and the eye, providing comfort and consistent visual clarity.

How Do Scleral Lenses Help Keratoconus?

Scleral lenses are uniquely suited to address the irregular shape of the cornea caused by keratoconus, offering several key benefits that help patients achieve clearer vision and improved comfort. Each scleral lens is custom-designed to match the unique shape of the patient’s eye. This individualized approach ensures a secure and comfortable fit, even over highly irregular or steep corneas commonly seen in keratoconus.

The vaulted design of scleral lenses creates a uniform front surface for the eye. This smooth optical layer effectively neutralizes corneal irregularities, reducing visual distortions such as halos, glare, and double vision that often accompany keratoconus.

One of the most significant advantages of scleral lenses is the fluid reservoir that forms between the lens and the cornea. This reservoir keeps the eye continuously hydrated and acts as a protective barrier, making scleral lenses especially beneficial for patients experiencing dryness or discomfort due to advanced keratoconus.

Who Is a Candidate for Scleral Lenses?

Patients with mild to severe keratoconus who are unable to achieve clear vision with glasses or soft contacts are excellent candidates for scleral lenses. These lenses are often recommended when other corrective methods no longer provide adequate vision or comfort.

Long-Term Benefits of Scleral Lenses

Beyond improved vision, scleral lenses can slow the progression of discomfort and visual instability caused by keratoconus. Many patients report a significant improvement in quality of life - returning to daily activities, work, and hobbies with renewed confidence.

Take the Next Step at Eyes On Dallas

At Eyes On Dallas, we understand how frustrating and limiting keratoconus can be. Our experienced optometrists specialize in fitting scleral lenses that are tailored to each patient’s unique eye shape and needs.

If you’ve been struggling to find relief from blurry or distorted vision, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Eyes On Dallas to discover if scleral lenses are right for you. Visit our office in Dallas, Texas, or call (214) 890-9864 to book an appointment today.