Exploring Scleral Lenses: A Game-Changer for Severe Dry Eyes

Severe dry eye can significantly impact your daily life, making simple tasks like reading, working on a computer, or even blinking uncomfortable. For those who have tried numerous treatments with little success, scleral lenses may offer an effective solution. These specialized contact lenses provide unparalleled relief and vision clarity for individuals struggling with chronic dry eye.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas-permeable contact lenses designed to vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). Unlike traditional contact lenses, which sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses create a fluid reservoir between the lens and the eye. This reservoir helps keep the eye hydrated, protecting it from dryness and irritation throughout the day.

How Scleral Lenses Help with Severe Dry Eye

Scleral lenses offer multiple benefits for individuals suffering from severe dry eye:

•          Continuous Hydration: The fluid layer trapped between the lens and the cornea provides constant moisture, reducing dryness and discomfort.

•          Protection from Irritants: By covering the cornea, scleral lenses act as a barrier against environmental factors like wind, dust, and allergens that can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.

•          Improved Comfort: Unlike conventional contact lenses, which can worsen dry eye symptoms by drawing moisture away from the eye, scleral lenses provide relief and comfort throughout the day.

•          Enhanced Vision: Many individuals with dry eye also experience visual fluctuations. Scleral lenses provide a smooth, stable surface that enhances vision clarity.

Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are particularly beneficial for individuals with:

•          Severe dry eye disease caused by conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome or meibomian gland dysfunction

•          Corneal irregularities, including keratoconus and post-surgical complications

•          Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) or other autoimmune disorders affecting tear production

•          Sensitivity to soft contact lenses due to chronic dryness and discomfort

The Fitting Process for Scleral Lenses

At Dr. Terry Tsang Optometry, Inc., we specialize in fitting scleral lenses for patients with severe dry eye and other corneal conditions. Our comprehensive fitting process ensures that each patient receives a customized solution that enhances comfort and vision while addressing chronic dryness.

The process begins with a comprehensive eye evaluation, where we assess your eye health, tear film stability, and corneal shape. This step helps determine whether scleral lenses are the right solution for your specific condition. By gathering precise measurements and evaluating the severity of your dry eye, we can create a personalized treatment plan.

Next, we proceed with the custom lens fitting using advanced diagnostic technology. Scleral lenses are not one-size-fits-all, so we design each pair to match the unique contours of your eyes. This precise customization ensures an optimal fit, providing maximum hydration and visual clarity while preventing discomfort.

Once the lenses are designed, you will go through a trial period and adjustment phase. During this time, you will have the opportunity to wear trial lenses to evaluate their comfort and effectiveness. If any modifications are needed, we make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible fit before finalizing your prescription.

Finally, we provide education and care instructions to help you properly handle your new lenses. Our team will guide you through the process of inserting, removing, and maintaining your scleral lenses to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. By following these care guidelines, you can maximize the benefits of your lenses and maintain long-term eye health.

Improve Your Vision and Comfort with Dr. Terry Tsang Optometry, Inc.

For those struggling with severe dry eye, scleral lenses offer a transformative solution by providing continuous hydration, comfort, and improved vision. Unlike traditional treatment options that may offer temporary relief, scleral lenses address the root of the problem by creating a stable and protective environment for the eyes.

If you suffer from chronic dry eye and have not found relief with traditional treatments, schedule a consultation at Dr. Terry Tsang Optometry, Inc. to explore how scleral lenses can improve your eye health and quality of life. Visit our office in Irvine, California, or call (949) 776-0111 to book an appointment today.