Have you been told that you shouldn't wear contact lenses because of a problem with your cornea? If you have an irregular cornea. If so, you might want to talk to your eye doctor about scleral contact lenses. At Athens Family Vision Clinic in Athens, GA, we can help you decide if scleral lenses are right for you. Here's what you need to know about scleral contact lenses.
What are Scleral Contacts?
Scleral contact lenses are large-diameter gas permeable contact lenses that cover the entire cornea and extend to the sclera, which is the white part of the eyes. They range in size from 14.5mm to 24mm. The size of the lens is usually determined by your optometrist. They will determine how large the lens needs to be to overcome the corneal irregularity during your eye exams.
Who Do They Benefit?
These contacts are made for someone that has an irregular cornea surface. Conditions treated with scleral contact lenses include:
- Keratoconus
- Corneal scarring
- Corneal transplants
- Refractive surgery
- Sjogren's syndrome
These contacts are meant for people that wouldn't typically be able to wear contacts because of a corneal issue. Our eye doctor will be able to determine if they are the right contact lenses for you.
How They Help
Since the lens vaults over the cornea and rests on the sclera, it won't irritate the cornea. The sclera has fewer nerve endings than the cornea, so this provides comfort while wearing the lens. Furthermore, scleral lenses help improve vision by creating a reservoir of fluid between the lens and the cornea. The fluid fills in the irregularities of the cornea, providing clearer vision. During your next contact lens exam, ask our optometrist if these contact lenses would benefit you.
Schedule a Contact Lens Exam with Our Eye Doctor in Athens, GA
At Athens Family Vision Clinic, we have shared the benefits of scleral contact lenses with residents of Athens, GA for many years. Our optometrist will evaluate your condition to determine how you will benefit from wearing these specialty contact lenses. Call us today at (706) 850-3599 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor.
