Contact lenses have long been a popular solution for vision correction. However, standard contact lenses aren’t always suitable for people with specific corneal conditions. This is where specialty contact lenses come into play, offering tailored solutions for complex eye conditions such as keratoconus, corneal post-transplant complications, Sjogren's syndrome, and more.
Our optometrist at Premier Vision Clinic in Clive provides a range of specialty contact lenses, like scleral lenses, for individuals with these unique eye health needs.
What are Specialty Contact Lenses?
Specialty contact lenses are custom-designed lenses that cater to specific eye conditions and needs, which standard contact lenses may not adequately address. Unlike regular contacts, these lenses are tailor-made for individuals with unique eye shapes or certain eye health issues.
Scleral Lenses: Versatile Specialty Contacts for Irregular Corneas
Scleral lenses are a specialized type of specialty contact lens that vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. These lenses benefit individuals with irregular corneas because the larger diameter offers a more stable and comfortable fit. These lenses avoid direct contact with the sensitive cornea by resting on the less sensitive sclera, thereby creating a tear-filled vault that maintains consistent hydration over the cornea. The smooth optical surface of scleral lenses also ensures excellent visual clarity, with the scleral lens acting as a smooth, clear window that corrects corneal irregularities.
Eye Conditions Managed with Scleral Lenses
Keratoconus and Post Cross-Linking Recovery
A common corneal irregularity that scleral lenses can manage is keratoconus. Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder where the cornea, usually round, thins out and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape. This distortion leads to significant visual impairment, including blurred vision and sensitivity to light. Traditional contact lenses are often ineffective for keratoconus patients due to the cornea's irregular shape. In contrast, scleral lenses are effective as they provide excellent comfort and stability.
These specialty lenses also serve as an excellent vision correction and protective solution for patients recovering from corneal cross-linking, a procedure used in treating keratoconus to reshape the cornea. Due to the increased corneal sensitivity and shape alterations post-procedure, regular contacts may not be suitable, making the larger diameter and unique design of scleral lenses ideal.
Dry Eye Caused By Sjogren's Syndrome and Other Factors
Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that affects the glands that produce tears and saliva, often leading to severe dry eyes. Lenses like scleral contacts help retain moisture and protect the corneal surface in people with Sjogren’s syndrome. Additionally, the larger diameter and unique design of scleral lenses provide a protective barrier between the eye's surface and the external environment, further reducing irritation and discomfort. This is especially beneficial for patients with Sjogren's syndrome, as their reduced tear production can make the eyes more susceptible to damage from external irritants and airborne particles. People with dry eye caused by other factors can also benefit from scleral lenses.
Post-Transplant and Surgical Corneal Irregularities
Scleral lenses are an ideal solution for managing post-transplant and surgical corneal irregularities. These large-diameter lenses correct irregular astigmatism by creating a smooth, uniform refractive surface over the cornea. At the same time, their design allows them to vault over the cornea without direct contact, minimizing irritation and enhancing comfort. The stability and fit of scleral lenses are particularly beneficial as they ensure a secure fit, protect the delicate graft tissue, and promote healing.
Schedule a Contact Lens Eye Exam
If you have a hard-to-fit eye condition or struggle to gain clarity from standard contacts, visit Premier Vision Clinic in Clive for specialty contact lenses.