Pellucid Marginal Degeneration (PMD) is a rare eye condition that affects the cornea. The clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. In a healthy eye, the cornea maintains a smooth, rounded shape, which allows light to focus properly on the retina. But in PMD, the cornea becomes unusually thin along its lower edge (usually between the 4 and 8 o’clock position).
This thinning causes the cornea to bulge outward just above the thinned area, creating an irregular, distorted surface. As a result, vision becomes blurry or wavy, and glasses often fail to provide clear correction.
While PMD is similar to keratoconus, it is not the same. In keratoconus, the thinning occurs near the center of the cornea, while in PMD, it’s near the bottom edge. This difference changes how light enters the eye and often makes PMD more challenging to correct with traditional lenses.
Common Symptoms of Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
The symptoms of Pellucid Marginal Degeneration may progress slowly over time. People with PMD often experience:
- Blurred or distorted vision that worsens gradually.
- Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia).
- Frequent prescription changes in glasses.
- Ghosting or double vision, especially at night.
- Difficulty seeing clearly despite wearing glasses.
Because the corneal surface becomes irregular, standard lenses and spectacles cannot provide proper visual correction. That’s where scleral lenses play a life-changing role.
Why Scleral Lenses Are the Best Solution for PMD
Scleral lenses are large-diameter contact lenses designed to rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) rather than the cornea itself. These lenses vault completely over the cornea, creating a smooth optical surface and a tear-filled space between the lens and the eye.
This design provides several advantages for individuals with PMD:
- Improved Visual Clarity
Scleral lenses neutralize the irregular shape of the cornea, allowing light to focus correctly on the retina. This results in crisp, stable vision, often better than glasses or soft contacts can provide.
- Comfort for Sensitive Eyes
Because scleral lenses rest on the sclera and not the cornea, they’re far more comfortable for people with thinning or irregular corneas. The layer of saline solution between the lens and the eye also keeps the cornea hydrated, reducing irritation.
- Protection and Hydration
The fluid reservoir beneath the scleral lens protects the fragile cornea from environmental exposure, dryness, and friction from blinking. This is especially beneficial for people with PMD, whose corneas are thin and vulnerable.
- Stable Fit
Unlike smaller lenses that can move around or fall out, scleral lenses stay centered and stable throughout the day. Even during blinking or eye movement, the lens maintains its position and optical quality.
- Customized for Every Eye
Each scleral lens is custom-designed based on detailed eye measurements. For conditions like PMD, this precision ensures a perfect fit, comfort, and optimal vision correction.
How Scleral Lenses Work for PMD
When fitted properly, scleral lenses create a new, smooth front surface that replaces the irregular cornea optically. Here’s what happens:
- Lens Vaults Over the Cornea
The scleral lens does not touch the cornea directly. Instead, it forms a dome over it, supported by the sclera.
- Tear-Filled Reservoir
The space between the cornea and lens fills with sterile saline solution, which corrects the irregular surface.
- Light Refraction is Normalized
Light can now pass through the lens and tear layer uniformly, allowing for clear and distortion-free vision.
- Protection and Comfort
The saline layer also acts as a cushion, keeping the eye moist and protected throughout the day.
This makes scleral lenses an excellent long-term management tool for PMD, providing both visual and therapeutic benefits.
Scleral Lens Fitting for Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
Fitting scleral lenses for PMD is a delicate process that requires specialized expertise and technology. Michigan Contact Lens’ experienced optometrists use advanced corneal imaging and 3D mapping to design custom scleral lenses for each patient.
Here is what you can expect during your fitting process
Comprehensive Eye Examination
Your eye doctor will assess the overall health of your cornea, measure corneal thickness, and determine the degree of thinning caused by PMD.
Corneal Topography or Tomography
Advanced imaging tools are used to map the exact shape of your cornea. These detailed scans help design a lens that matches your unique eye structure.
Trial Lens Application
A series of trial scleral lenses is placed on your eye to evaluate comfort, fit, and vision. Your doctor will make necessary adjustments for optimal alignment.
Custom Lens Design
Based on measurements and feedback, your custom scleral lens is manufactured with micron-level precision.
Final Fitting and Training
Once your lenses are ready, you’ll return for a final fitting. You’ll also be taught how to insert, remove, and care for your scleral lenses properly.
Benefits of Choosing Scleral Lenses at Michigan Contact Lens
If you’re living with Pellucid Marginal Degeneration, finding an experienced eye care provider makes all the difference. Michigan Contact Lens specializes in fitting advanced scleral lenses for corneal irregularities, including PMD and keratoconus.
Here is what sets us apart:
Extensive Experience
Our team specializes in fitting scleral lenses for complex eye conditions like Pellucid Marginal Degeneration and keratoconus. Years of focused expertise allow us to manage even the most challenging corneal shapes with precision. You can trust that your vision care is handled by professionals who truly understand specialty contact lenses.
State-of-the-Art Equipment
We use advanced diagnostic tools such as corneal topography and anterior segment OCT to map every contour of your eye. This ensures the most accurate and comfortable lens fit possible. Our technology-driven approach reduces trial time and enhances long-term vision stability.
Personalized Care
Every pair of scleral lenses we design is custom-made to match your unique corneal structure and lifestyle needs. We take time to understand your vision goals, comfort preferences, and daily routine. The result is clear, stable, and comfortable vision tailored specifically for you.
Comprehensive Support
Our care doesn’t stop after your first fitting. We provide continuous support through follow-up visits, adjustments, and lens care education. Whether it’s troubleshooting minor discomfort or refining your fit, we’re here to ensure long-term success with your lenses.
Michigan Contact Lens’ mission is to help you see clearly and live comfortably, even with challenging eye conditions like PMD.
Lifestyle Benefits of Scleral Lenses for Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
Beyond visual improvement, scleral lenses can enhance your overall quality of life
Extensive Experience
Our team specializes in fitting scleral lenses for complex eye conditions like Pellucid Marginal Degeneration and keratoconus. Years of focused expertise allow us to manage even the most challenging corneal shapes with precision. You can trust that your vision care is handled by professionals who truly understand specialty contact lenses.
State-of-the-Art Equipment
We use advanced diagnostic tools such as corneal topography and anterior segment OCT to map every contour of your eye. This ensures the most accurate and comfortable lens fit possible. Our technology-driven approach reduces trial time and enhances long-term vision stability.
Personalized Care
Every pair of scleral lenses we design is custom-made to match your unique corneal structure and lifestyle needs. We take time to understand your vision goals, comfort preferences, and daily routine. The result is clear, stable, and comfortable vision tailored specifically for you.
Comprehensive Support
Our care doesn’t stop after your first fitting. We provide continuous support through follow-up visits, adjustments, and lens care education. Whether it’s troubleshooting minor discomfort or refining your fit, we’re here to ensure long-term success with your lenses.
Caring for Your Scleral Lenses
Proper care and hygiene are essential for maintaining healthy eyes and extending the lifespan of your lenses.
Here are some tips
- Always wash and dry your hands before handling lenses.
- Use preservative-free saline solution to fill the lenses.
- Clean your lenses daily with an approved cleaning solution.
- Store lenses in a clean case with fresh disinfecting solution.
- Never sleep in your scleral lenses unless advised by your doctor.
- Schedule regular follow-up visits to ensure your lenses continue to fit properly.
Who Should Consider Scleral Lenses for PMD
You might be a good candidate for scleral lenses if your glasses or soft contact lenses no longer provide clear vision, or if you experience frequent discomfort and dryness with other types of lenses. Individuals whose corneal topography shows significant irregularity, especially those diagnosed with Pellucid Marginal Degeneration or keratoconus, can greatly benefit from scleral lenses.
You might be a good candidate for scleral lenses if your glasses or soft contact lenses no longer provide clear vision, or if you experience frequent discomfort and dryness with other types of lenses. Individuals whose corneal topography shows significant irregularity, especially those diagnosed with Pellucid Marginal Degeneration or keratoconus, can greatly benefit from scleral lenses.
Living with Pellucid Marginal Degeneration, Hope Through Modern Eye Care
While Pellucid Marginal Degeneration is a lifelong condition, modern technology has made it much easier to manage. With scleral lenses, most patients can achieve clear, comfortable vision and maintain an active lifestyle without surgery.
Regular follow-ups with your optometrist are important, as your corneal shape may change gradually. Adjustments to your lens design can help maintain consistent clarity and comfort.
At Michigan Contact Lens, we’re committed to helping every patient find the best possible visual outcome through advanced scleral lens fitting and compassionate care.
Book an Appointment Today
If you have been struggling with blurry or distorted vision caused by Pellucid Marginal Degeneration, don’t wait to find relief. Scleral lenses can restore the clear, stable vision you deserve.
Contact Michigan Contact Lens today to schedule your personalized scleral lens fitting.
Book an appointment now and take the first step toward sharper, more comfortable vision.
Conclusion
Scleral lenses have transformed vision correction for individuals with Pellucid Marginal Degeneration, offering unparalleled comfort, stability, and clarity. Unlike traditional contact lenses, they create a smooth optical surface that compensates for corneal irregularities, helping you regain the visual confidence you may have lost due to PMD.Michigan Contact Lens specializes in advanced scleral lens fittings for complex conditions, such as PMD and keratoconus. Our expert optometrists use state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic tools to design lenses tailored to your unique eye shape. From your first consultation to long-term care, our team is dedicated to helping you see the world clearly and comfortably again.
FAQs
Are scleral lenses safe for Pellucid Marginal Degeneration (PMD)?
Yes. Scleral lenses are considered one of the safest and most effective non-surgical treatments for PMD. They vault over the irregular cornea, creating a smooth optical surface and protecting sensitive tissues from irritation or further damage.
How long does it take to get used to wearing scleral lenses?
Most first-time wearers adjust within one to two weeks. Initially, you might feel mild awareness or extra tearing, but these symptoms usually subside as your eyes adapt. Consistent wear and proper insertion techniques make the transition smoother.
How long can I wear scleral lenses each day?
Many patients comfortably wear their lenses for 10–14 hours a day. Your eye doctor will recommend a gradual wearing schedule during the first few days to allow your eyes to adapt without strain.
Do scleral lenses improve vision better than glasses or soft lenses?
In most PMD cases, yes. Because scleral lenses provide a perfectly round optical surface, they correct irregular astigmatism far better than glasses or soft lenses. The result is sharper, more stable vision, even in advanced corneal irregularities.
What cleaning solutions should I use for scleral lenses?
Always use preservative-free saline to fill the lenses before insertion and a hydrogen peroxide-based disinfecting system (such as Clear Care Plus) for overnight cleaning. Your optometrist will provide specific product recommendations suited to your eye health.
Will scleral lenses stop the progression of PMD?
Scleral lenses won’t stop the underlying condition, but they can dramatically improve your visual quality and protect the cornea from irritation or further distortion.
How often should I follow up with my eye doctor?
Follow-up visits are essential, especially during the first few months. After your lenses are stabilized, most patients return every 6–12 months for evaluation. These check-ins ensure your lenses continue to fit properly and your corneal health stays optimal.
