Blurry vision that never seems fully corrected can be incredibly frustrating. For many people with irregular corneas or advanced eye conditions, glasses and traditional contact lenses simply don’t work as expected. Daily discomfort, poor clarity, and constant trial-and-error can start to feel like there are no good options left.
Fortunately, there is a solution designed specifically for these challenging cases. Scleral lenses offer a more comfortable, more precise way to restore vision for patients who have struggled with other forms of correction. Continue reading to explore how these lenses work and why they have become such a trusted option for complex vision needs.
What Are Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are a type of rigid gas permeable contact lens, but they are very different from traditional hard contacts. Instead of sitting directly on the cornea, scleral lenses are larger and rest on the sclera, which is the white part of the eye.
As Dr. Mike explains, “The scleral lens is a larger lens that lands on the white part of the eye and tucks underneath the eyelids, so the eyelids don’t rub against it. That’s what makes it much more comfortable.” Because the lens vaults over the cornea rather than touching it, it creates a smooth optical surface that improves vision while avoiding pressure on sensitive or irregular areas of the eye.
Why Scleral Lenses Are More Comfortable
One of the biggest concerns patients have about rigid lenses is comfort. Traditional hard lenses are small and sit directly on the cornea, which can cause irritation—especially for people with corneas that are uneven or fragile.
Scleral lenses solve this problem in several ways:
- They rest on the sclera instead of the cornea
- The lens edges tuck under the eyelids, reducing irritation
- The lens is filled with sterile saline, creating a cushioning layer over the eye
That liquid reservoir acts like a soothing bath for the eye throughout the day. For patients with discomfort from dryness or corneal disease, this extra comfort can make a noticeable difference.
How Scleral Lenses Improve Vision
Irregular corneas scatter light in unpredictable ways, making it difficult for glasses or soft contacts to provide clear vision. Scleral lenses create a smooth, uniform surface that allows light to focus properly on the retina.
Many patients experience dramatic improvements in clarity. As Dr. Mike notes, many patients who could not reach sharp vision with glasses are able to achieve significantly clearer vision with scleral lenses.
Who Benefits Most from Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are commonly recommended for patients with:
- Keratoconus
- Corneal irregularity from surgery or injury
- Corneal transplants
- Severe dry eye symptoms
- Vision that cannot be corrected with standard lenses
If other vision correction methods have not worked, scleral lenses can be an effective next step.
Insurance Coverage for Scleral Lenses
Many patients are surprised to learn that scleral lenses are often covered by vision insurance. Because they are commonly prescribed for medically necessary conditions, plans such as VSP and EyeMed frequently provide coverage for both the lenses and the fitting process.
For patients without coverage, flexible payment options are available, including monthly payment plans and the use of HSA or FSA funds. This helps ensure that access to clearer, more comfortable vision is available to a wide range of patients.
Schedule Your Scleral Lens Consultation in Manhattan Beach
Living with poor vision or daily discomfort does not have to be your normal. Scleral lenses provide a proven solution for patients with complex eye conditions who need more than standard correction.
If you are ready to explore whether scleral lenses are right for you, schedule an appointment with Advanced Eyecare Center. Our expert eye doctors are here to guide you through every step toward clearer, more comfortable vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are scleral lenses hard to get used to?
- Most patients adapt quickly. Because the lenses do not touch the cornea, they are often more comfortable than traditional hard contacts.
Can scleral lenses help severe dry eye?
- Yes. The saline-filled design keeps the eye hydrated throughout the day and is often recommended for advanced dry eye cases.
How long does the fitting process take?
- Some patients are fitted within a few weeks, while others may need additional adjustments depending on corneal shape and vision needs.
Are scleral lenses safe for long-term wear?
- When fitted properly and monitored regularly, scleral lenses are considered safe for long-term use.
Do scleral lenses work when nothing else has helped?
- In many cases, yes. They are often the best option for patients whose vision cannot be corrected with glasses or standard contacts.