Blurry, distorted, or uncomfortable vision can make everyday tasks feel harder than they should. If glasses or standard contacts have not given you the clarity you want, scleral lenses may offer another path forward.
At Austin Eye Clinic, we take a patient-first approach to eye care. Our team includes board-certified ophthalmologists and skilled optometrists who use advanced techniques and technology, including solutions like scleral lenses, to help patients see more clearly and comfortably.
What Are Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are large, rigid gas-permeable contact lenses that sit on the white part of the eye (known as the sclera) instead of resting directly on the cornea. They differ from soft contacts in that they vault over the cornea to create a fluid reservoir. Rather than matching the cornea’s uneven surface, they create a smooth optical surface that helps light focus more clearly.
How Scleral Lenses Improve Vision
Scleral lenses work in three main ways:
- They vault over the cornea instead of pressing on it
- They hold a layer of fluid between the lens and the eye
- They create a smooth front surface for clearer vision
Why the Fluid Layer Matters
One of the most noteworthy features of scleral lenses is the fluid reservoir. The lens is filled with preservative-free sterile saline before it’s inserted. Once placed, this fluid layer maintains space between the lens and the cornea. This can help people with certain dry eye or ocular surface conditions because the lens provides protection and maintains hydration.
Who Might Consider Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses may be recommended for individuals who have:
- Keratoconus
- Irregular astigmatism
- Corneal scarring
- Dry eye symptoms
- Vision changes after corneal surgery
- Trouble wearing standard contacts
Some people may not need scleral lenses or may not be ideal candidates for them, such as those with mild vision issues that can be corrected with standard glasses or soft contact lenses, individuals who have difficulty handling or caring for specialty lenses, or patients with eye conditions that make lens wear uncomfortable or impractical. A full eye exam helps determine whether they are a good fit for your eyes, lifestyle, and vision goals.
See More Clearly With Scleral Lenses in Austin
Scleral lenses can help patients achieve sharper, more comfortable vision when glasses or traditional contacts are not enough. To find out whether they are right for you, call Austin Eye Clinic at (512) 250-2020 and book a consultation with a member of our team. Clear vision begins here!
