How Switching from RGP to Scleral Lenses Improves Keratoconus Vision

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and change shape, which distorts vision. For years, Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses have been the go-to solution for keratoconus patients looking to restore clear vision. However, as the condition advances, many individuals find themselves needing a more specialized approach to manage their symptoms. This is where scleral lenses come in, offering an alternative that provides more comfort, stability, and vision clarity.

If you are currently wearing RGP lenses and are considering switching from rgp to scleral keratoconus, you are not alone. Many keratoconus patients have found that scleral lenses offer significant improvements in comfort and vision. Let’s explore why you might want to switch, what the benefits are, and how the transition process works.

Why RGP Lenses May Stop Working Over Time

While RGP lenses are a popular choice for keratoconus patients, they may no longer provide the same level of comfort or effectiveness as the disease progresses. Keratoconus causes the cornea to become thin and irregularly shaped, which can make it difficult for RGP lenses to fit properly. When this happens, patients often experience:

• As the cornea thins, RGP lenses may put pressure on the eye, leading to irritation or even pain.
• Over time, an ill-fitting RGP lens may cause the lens to move around, creating blurry vision or increased dryness.
• Prolonged use of RGP lenses can sometimes cause corneal scarring, especially when the lens does not fit snugly on the irregularly shaped cornea.

As the keratoconus progresses, many patients find that switching to scleral lenses for keratoconus is the ideal solution.

What Makes Scleral Lenses Different?

Unlike RGP lenses, which rest directly on the cornea, scleral lenses are larger and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). This creates a fluid reservoir between the lens and the cornea, which not only provides better comfort but also helps protect the cornea from further damage. The benefits of scleral lenses over RGP lenses include:

Better Comfort

Scleral lenses create a cushion of fluid between the lens and the cornea, reducing dryness and irritation.

Stable Vision

Because scleral lenses rest on the sclera, they don’t shift or move as much as RGP lenses, offering more stable vision.

Protection for the Cornea

The fluid reservoir can help protect the cornea from damage, which is particularly beneficial for those with advanced keratoconus.

More Clarity

Scleral lenses can create a smoother optical surface, improving the quality of your vision and reducing distortions caused by an irregular cornea.

Real Comfort and Clarity Improvements

Patients who make the switch from RGP lenses to scleral lenses often experience significant improvements in both comfort and vision clarity. Here’s what you can expect:

Improved Comfort

Many people who have worn RGP lenses for years find that switching to scleral lenses reduces irritation and dryness. The fluid reservoir between the sclera and the lens keeps the eyes hydrated, offering all-day comfort.

Clearer Vision

With scleral lenses, you’ll experience less blurriness and more consistent vision. The lenses create a uniform optical surface that helps to correct vision problems caused by the irregular shape of the cornea.

Reduced Halos and Glare

Many keratoconus patients experience glare, especially at night. Scleral lenses can help reduce these visual disturbances by smoothing out optical distortions.

Many keratoconus patients who have made the switch to scleral lenses have shared their positive experiences. One patient mentioned, “I have seen a huge improvement in my vision and comfort. Scleral lenses have made daily activities like driving and reading so much easier.”

Benefits of Switching

Making the switch from RGP to scleral lenses offers multiple benefits:

1. Since scleral lenses don’t rest on the cornea, they’re less likely to cause irritation, making them more comfortable for long hours of wear.
2. Scleral lenses provide stable vision by maintaining a smooth surface across the irregularities in the cornea.
3. The fluid-filled reservoir ensures that the eyes stay moist, which is a major benefit for people suffering from dry eyes due to keratoconus.
4. By relieving pressure from the cornea, scleral lenses can help reduce the risk of corneal scarring, which is a common issue with RGP lenses.

The Scleral Lens Fitting Process for Former RGP Users

The Michigan Contact Lens’s scleral lens fitting process is designed to ensure comfort, accuracy, and long-term vision stability. Your optometrist carefully evaluates your cornea, uses advanced mapping tools for precise measurements, and conducts a trial fitting to fine-tune comfort and clarity before finalizing your custom lenses.

How Long Does the Transition Take?

Switching to scleral lenses for keratoconus can take some time as your eyes adapt to the new lenses. Most patients report that it takes about 2-3 weeks to get used to wearing scleral lenses regularly. During this period, you may experience some discomfort or need slight adjustments to the fit of your lenses. However, once you’re accustomed to the lenses, the improvement in comfort and vision is significant.

Cost and Care of Scleral Lenses

One of the concerns many patients have when considering scleral lenses is the cost. While scleral lenses for keratoconus are more expensive than RGP lenses, the benefits often outweigh the cost. On average, scleral lenses can cost between $1,500 and $3,000 per pair, including fitting, lens customization, and follow-up visits.

Although the upfront cost may seem high, many patients find that scleral lenses offer significant long-term value, particularly when it comes to comfort, vision clarity, and reduced need for frequent lens replacements.

Michigan Contact Lens: Expert Care and Fit

Michigan Contact Lens specializes in scleral lenses for keratoconus and is proud to offer expert care to patients in cities such as Ann Arbor, Detroit, and the surrounding regions. Under the care of Dr. Shira Kresch, we provide comprehensive eye evaluations and personalized fittings to ensure that each patient receives the best possible solution for their vision needs.

Whether you are new to scleral lenses or transitioning from RGP lenses, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process. We use the latest diagnostic tools and imaging technologies to design lenses that provide maximum comfort, clarity, and protection for your eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions