Scleral lenses differ from standard contacts in size, shape, and purpose. Only about one percent of contact wearers use scleral lenses, though they are growing in popularity and treating a wider range of conditions than in the past. If you have questions about scleral lenses and are looking for an ophthalmologist in Phoenix, AZ, keep reading and consider the Eye Doctors of Arizona for your care.
Scleral Contact Lens Differences
Most contact lenses float on the tears covering our pupils, while scleral lenses are larger rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses, and their edges rest on the white part of the eye, called the sclera.
Users bathe the scleral lenses in saline solution before placing them on the eyes, filling the center of the lenses with solution. The procedure, lens shape, and size help trap moisture, relieving the dry eye symptoms that often keep some patients from wearing contact lenses. The size of scleral lenses also helps block dirt and smoke from entering the eye.
Conditions Treated by Scleral Contact Lenses
In addition to dry eye syndrome, scleral lenses are often used to treat astigmatism and help heal corneal damage.
The continued advance in measuring corneas using a scleral profilometer has allowed scleral lenses to be used more broadly, including for patients with refractive errors like nearsightedness and farsightedness.
Fitting Scleral Contact Lenses
Scleral lenses are custom-designed and fitted based on the size and shape of each eye. The customization occurs by using a scleral profilometer to scan your eyes and provide detailed maps of the cornea, allowing the creation of lenses that exactly fit your eyes. Eye doctors must have special training to assess, prescribe, and fit scleral lenses. The fitting process often requires several appointments. Once in use, most users find them very comfortable and appreciate that a pair can last up to three years when appropriately handled.
Patients should also be aware that, depending on the diagnosis, some insurance companies do not pay for scleral lenses, so confirming the financial arrangements in advance is important.
Get Scleral Contact Lenses Near You at Eye Doctors of Arizona in Phoenix, AZ
Contact the Eye Doctors of Arizona if you need scleral contact lenses and want an "ophthalmologist near me". Our team of ophthalmologists perform the detailed exams and fittings our patients need to obtain the lenses best suited to help them see clearly and comfortably. Call one of our four offices in the Phoenix, AZ, area to schedule an appointment.