How Often Are Scleral Lenses Replaced?

Scleral contact lenses vault over the cornea, resting on the white of the eye (sclera). The large diameter lenses help create a smooth eye surface. They correct visual issues due to irregular corneas. 

 

Scleral lenses help correct vision where other options, such as eyeglasses and regular contacts, have failed. The lens design improves vision while ensuring comfort. So, how often should you replace scleral lenses?

 

 

Getting Scleral Lenses 

 

 

Scleral contacts are large-diameter custom lenses that do not touch the cornea. The gas-permeable contact lenses are dome-shaped, covering the entire cornea, making them ideal for people with irregular corneas. 

 

The space between the cornea and the lens surface acts as a fluid reservoir when filled with saline. It enhances comfort for people with dry eyes. The rigid lenses are custom-made to improve vision and work more effectively than regular contacts or eyeglasses. 

 

 

Types of Scleral Lenses 

 

 

Scleral contact lenses are available in different sizes. The average cornea is around 12 mm; scleral lenses range between 14.5 to 24 mm. It means that even the smallest contacts can cover the entire cornea surface. Lenses between 13 to 15 mm are known as mini-scleral lenses and are ideal for those who require large GP lenses. 

 

For patients with an ocular surface disease or chronic dry eye, larger lenses are more desirable. Full scleral lenses have a large tear reservoir. The size of the lens will depend on the complexity of the eye issue.  

 

 

Candidates for Scleral Contact Lenses

 

 

Some people are good candidates for scleral lenses. They include:

 

  • Patients with hard-to-fit eyes.
  • Individuals with chronic dry eye.
  • People with keratoconus.
  • Those with Sjogren’s syndrome. 
  • People with Stevens-Johnson syndrome. 
  • Patients with Graft-versus-host disease.
  • People who have had corneal transplants can benefit from scleral lenses. 

 

 

How Often Are Scleral Lenses Replaced?

 

 

Scleral lenses usually need to be replaced every three years. The duration of use will depend on proper maintenance. Like all contacts, the lenses are taken out after several hours of use. It is vital to remove them before sleep. Sleeping with contacts can prevent oxygen from reaching the cornea, increasing the risk of infection or ulcers. Contact lenses require daily cleaning and proper storage. Storing them in contact lens solution when not in use will help keep them moist.  

 

 

Benefits of Scleral Lenses 

 

 

  • Scleral lenses have several benefits. They include:
  • Enhancing breathability, making them comfortable.
  • Affordability, as they do not require frequent replacement.
  • Custom-fitted designs for maximum vision correction.
  • Reduced risk of complications and bacterial infections.
  • They are durable and easier to handle. 
  • Offer a wide range of options.

 

Scleral lenses are beneficial, but they are not for everyone. It can take time to get the perfect lenses, and they cost much more than conventional contacts. Insurance usually does not cover the total cost of the lenses. The lenses also require more maintenance, making them inconvenient. Adjusting to the lenses can take time as they feel different from soft contacts. In some cases, the lenses may slip from the center of the eye, which can be bothersome. 

 

Fitting for the contacts may require trying several lenses of different sizes and curvatures. Additional adjustments may be necessary based on the complexity of the vision problem. 

 

For more on scleral lenses, visit Limestone Eye Care at our Lawrence, Kansas office. Call (785) 268-6880 to schedule an appointment today.

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