Scleral lenses are large-diameter rigid gas-permeable contact lenses that vault completely over the cornea and rest on the sclera — the white part of the eye. Because they don't touch the corneal surface at all, they are particularly transformative for patients with irregular corneas, severe dry eye, or other conditions that make conventional lenses uncomfortable or optically inadequate.

How Scleral Lenses Work

Unlike standard rigid or soft lenses that conform to or rest on the cornea, a scleral lens creates a dome of space between the lens and the eye. This space is filled with preservative-free saline solution before insertion, creating a continuous fluid reservoir that bathes the cornea throughout the day. The result is two simultaneous benefits: a perfectly smooth optical surface that corrects even highly irregular corneal shapes, and continuous hydration that relieves chronic dryness and irritation.

Who Benefits Most from Scleral Lenses

  • Keratoconus — Scleral lenses are the gold standard for moderate to advanced keratoconus, restoring functional vision when other options fail
  • Post-surgical corneas — Patients who've had LASIK, radial keratotomy, or corneal transplants often have irregular shapes that sclerals handle exceptionally well
  • Severe dry eye disease — The fluid reservoir provides all-day moisture relief independent of tear production
  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome and other ocular surface diseases — Scleral lenses can restore vision and comfort in severely compromised eyes
  • High astigmatism or extreme prescriptions — The rigid optic corrects refractive errors that soft lenses cannot manage

The Fitting Process

Fitting scleral lenses requires corneal topography mapping, precise selection of lens diameter and vault height, and multiple trial fitting sessions. The process takes more time than a standard contact lens fitting, but the results — dramatically improved vision and comfort — are well worth it for the right patient. Our doctors are experienced scleral lens fitters who will guide you through the entire process.