Scleral lenses are large-diameter, rigid gas-permeable contact lenses that vault entirely over the cornea and land on the white part of the eye (the sclera). Unlike standard contacts that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses create a fluid-filled reservoir of preservative-free saline between the lens and the corneal surface. This reservoir serves two critical purposes: it provides an optically smooth front surface that masks corneal irregularities, and it bathes the cornea in continuous moisture throughout the day.
Because of their unique design, scleral lenses are the gold standard for patients with keratoconus, post-surgical corneal irregularity, severe dry eye, and high astigmatism that standard soft lenses cannot correct. Many patients who have been told they “cannot wear contacts” find that scleral lenses offer better vision and comfort than they ever achieved with glasses.
Did you know? Scleral lenses were originally developed over a century ago, but modern materials and computerized corneal mapping have made them more comfortable, breathable, and precise than ever before.
Conditions Treated
Progressive corneal thinning and steepening that causes distorted, fluctuating vision not correctable with glasses or soft contacts.
Corneal irregularities following refractive surgery that cause ghosting, halos, or persistent blurriness.
The saline reservoir continuously bathes the cornea, providing relief when drops and other therapies fall short.
Prescriptions beyond the correction range of standard soft toric lenses, delivering sharp, stable vision.
Post-transplant corneal irregularity that makes glasses and soft lenses ineffective for clear vision.
Optical irregularities from injury, infection, or inherited corneal dystrophies that distort vision.
Your Journey
High-resolution topography and anterior segment OCT capture thousands of data points to map every curve of your cornea and sclera.
Dr. Patel selects a diagnostic scleral lens based on your corneal profile. The lens is filled with saline, placed on your eye, and evaluated in real time.
Using OCT imaging over the lens, Dr. Patel assesses vault clearance and edge alignment, then orders your custom lens with precise modifications.
You receive your custom lenses along with hands-on insertion and removal training until you feel fully confident with the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients find scleral lenses remarkably comfortable — often more comfortable than standard soft contacts. Because the lens vaults entirely over the cornea without touching it, and a reservoir of preservative-free saline provides continuous lubrication, there is virtually no friction against the corneal surface. Many dry eye patients report their eyes feel better with scleral lenses in than without them.
Most patients adapt to scleral lenses within one to two weeks. The insertion and removal process takes a bit of practice at first, but Dr. Patel and our team provide hands-on training until you feel confident. Vision is typically clear from the very first lens, and comfort improves quickly as you become accustomed to the handling routine.
Scleral lenses are cleaned and disinfected each night with a hydrogen peroxide–based or multipurpose rigid lens solution. In the morning, you fill the lens bowl with preservative-free saline, insert the lens, and wear it throughout the day. Most patients wear their lenses 12 to 16 hours comfortably. Dr. Patel will recommend the specific solutions best suited to your eyes.
With proper care, a pair of scleral lenses typically lasts one to two years before replacement is needed. Lenses may need to be replaced sooner if your prescription changes, the lens develops deposits that cannot be removed, or the lens becomes scratched. Annual check-ups help ensure your lenses remain in optimal condition.
Scleral lenses prescribed for medical conditions like keratoconus are often covered under medical insurance — not just vision plans — because they are considered medically necessary devices. Our team at PersonalEyes will verify your benefits and help you understand your coverage before beginning the fitting process.
