Scleral Lens FAQs from an Optometrist Near You in Allentown, PA

Patients have many questions about the different types of contact lenses, and many are concerned about scleral lenses. Scleral lenses are used by only a small amount of contact wearers and differ in shape and purpose from standard contacts. If you have questions about scleral lenses and are looking for an optometrist near you, consider us at Advanced Family Eye Care, serving the Lehigh Valley, PA, area including Allentown, PA, Bethlehem, PA, or Easton, PA.

What Are Scleral Contact Lenses?

Unlike soft contact lenses that float over the pupil, scleral lenses are large, so their edge rests on the sclera, the white part of the eye. When applied, the wearer bathes the scleral lenses in saline solution so their centers are filled with solution when placed on the eye. The procedure, lens shape, and size help trap moisture, relieving dry eye symptoms.

What Eye Conditions Are Scleral Lenses Used to Treat?

Besides dry eye syndrome, scleral lenses are frequently used to treat astigmatism and keratoconus. Due to advances in measuring corneas using a scleral profilometer, scleral lenses are also being used more broadly with refractive errors like nearsightedness and farsightedness.

How Do Scleral Lenses Help Treat Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a condition that occurs when the cornea thins, bulges, and becomes cone-shaped. The irregular cornea causes significant vision problems, so optometrists use scleral lenses to help their patients see clearly in spite of their condition.

How Are Scleral Lenses Fitted?

Since scleral lenses are designed using a scleral profilometer that scans your eyes and provides very detailed maps of the cornea. We use the profilometer data to create individualized conical lenses that fit the exact shape of your eyes. Eye doctors must have special training to assess, prescribe, and fit scleral lenses. It may take several fitting sessions to obtain a proper fit.

How Long Do Scleral Lenses Last?

Scleral lenses take longer for patients to adjust, but most wear them comfortably. When appropriately handled, they can last up to three years.

Get Conical Lenses, Scleral Lenses, and Eye Doctor Services from an Optometrist Near You for Keratoconus and an Irregular Cornea

Contact us at Advanced Family Eye Care if you are looking for contact lenses, especially scleral lenses. An eye doctor on our team can perform contact lens exams and fit patients with quality lenses to help them see clearly and comfortably. Contact us to schedule an appointment at one of our office serving the Lehigh Valley, PA, area including Allentown, PA, Bethlehem, PA, and Easton, PA. Call us at (610) 434-1371 for conical lenses, scleral lenses, and eye doctor services from an optometrist near you for keratoconus and an irregular cornea.