For many people in Fort Worth, from office workers and retirees to high school athletes, conventional soft contact lenses fall short. That’s where scleral contact lenses come in. These custom-designed lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera), offering stability and comfort.
They're ideal for treating complex eye conditions that affect the shape or surface of the eye, and they’re a top choice for patients who haven’t found success with soft contact lenses. At Southwest Family Eye Health Center, we fit patients of all ages with scleral lenses, including those with refractive error, corneal issues, or ocular surface disease.
What Are Scleral Lenses and Who Needs Them?
Scleral lenses are large, rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses. They cover the cornea and create a space filled with tears between the lens and the eye. This design protects the eye’s surface while correcting even the most complicated refractive errors. They’re often prescribed to help with:
- Dry eye syndrome caused by Fort Worth’s dry, dusty environment
- Keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges outward
- Post-surgical corneas, like those who’ve had LASIK or corneal transplants
- Severe astigmatism or irregular corneas that don’t respond to other lenses
How Do Scleral Contacts Work?
Scleral lenses can help patients who can't wear regular contact lenses. They are also helpful for those with an irregular cornea. These lenses provide a new opportunity for clear vision. What makes scleral lenses different is their unique design:
- A larger size means they vault over the cornea entirely
- They rest on the sclera, the white part of your eye, avoiding pressure on sensitive corneal tissue
- A bubble of saline solution fills the space between the lens and eye, keeping the surface hydrated
- This setup smooths over any corneal irregularities and helps maintain stable, crisp vision.
- Think of it as both a protective dome and a precision lens.
Wearing and Caring for Scleral Lenses
Because of their larger size and custom fit, scleral lenses require a different routine than traditional contacts. Learning how to insert, remove, and maintain scleral lenses properly helps ensure lasting comfort, safety, and clear vision.
Here are the basics of care so you can feel confident wearing scleral lenses every day:
How to Insert Scleral Contact Lenses
Scleral lenses require a steady hand and some patience, but the process becomes second nature with a bit of practice. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Wash your hands with soap and dry them with a lint-free towel.
- Fill the lens bowl with preservative-free saline solution. This fluid creates a cushion between the lens and your eye.
- Hold your eyelids open and gently place the lens on the eye.
- Blink slowly to settle the lens into place.
Our Southwest Family Eye Health Center team walks you through this in the office until you feel confident. Some patients find it helpful to use a plunger or insertion ring, which we provide if needed.
Removing Scleral Contact Lenses
Taking your lenses out at the end of the day may feel tricky at first, but once you learn the technique, it becomes a quick and easy part of your routine. Removing them safely is just as crucial as inserting them. To remove:
- Use a lens removal plunger (which we’ll supply and train you to use).
- Apply the plunger to the lower portion of the lens.
- Gently tilt and lift the lens out while looking straight ahead.
- Rinse and store according to the care instructions.
The Scleral Lens Fitting Process: Personalized and Precise
Fitting scleral lenses isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Southwest Family Eye Health Center, we use advanced imaging tools to assess your corneal shape, ocular surface, and vision needs. Then, we create custom lenses based on your eyes’ unique measurements. The fitting process typically includes:
- Initial consultation and corneal topography
- Lens trial and in-office evaluation
- Adjustments based on comfort and clarity
- Training on how to insert, remove, and clean your lenses
- Follow-ups to confirm fit and long-term success
See What You’ve Been Missing — Right Here in Fort Worth, TX
Many people in Fort Worth have untreated eye problems. These include dry eye, keratoconus, and changes after surgery. If you have been told that soft contact lenses won’t work, scleral lenses might be the solution.
At Southwest Family Eye Health Center, we’re committed to helping patients get relief, comfort, and confidence in their vision again. Book your comprehensive eye exam; our team is ready to help.
Scleral Lenses FAQs
How Long Do Scleral Lenses Last?
With proper care, scleral contact lenses can last up to 1 to 2 years. This makes them a durable and cost-effective option for long-term management of eye conditions.
Are Scleral Lenses Safe?
Yes, when prescribed by trained eye care practitioners and properly cared for, scleral lenses are safe, even for long-term wearers.
Can I Sleep in Scleral Lenses?
No, sleeping in scleral lenses is not recommended. Although they allow for high oxygen transmission, your eyes still need breaks to prevent dryness, redness, and the risk of infection. Removing them each night helps maintain long-term eye health.
