Finding a Skilled Eye Care Professional:

The first step in choosing scleral lenses for keratoconus is finding an experienced eye care professional specializing in fitting these lenses. It is crucial to work with a professional who has expertise in managing keratoconus and understands the challenges associated with this condition. They should possess the necessary technology and skills to accurately measure and fit scleral lenses to ensure optimal vision and comfort.

The Fitting Process:

Fitting scleral lenses for keratoconus involves several steps to ensure the lenses are custom-made and tailored to the individual’s specific needs:

1. 1. Corneal Mapping: Using advanced technology such as corneal topography or ocular coherence tomography, the eye care professional maps the shape and irregularities of the cornea. This information is crucial in designing the lenses to achieve the best possible fit.

1. 1. Trial Lenses: Based on the corneal measurements, trial lenses are selected to evaluate their fit and comfort. These lenses are typically larger than the final scleral lenses to allow for adjustments based on the individual’s experience.

1. 1. Refinements: Through a trial and error process, the eye care professional fine-tunes the design of the lenses to ensure optimal vision, comfort, and stability. This may involve modifications in lens diameter, vault, and edge design.

1. 1. Comfort Evaluation: The individual wears the trial lenses for an extended period to assess comfort, stability, and visual acuity. Any discomfort or issues are discussed with the eye care professional to make necessary adjustments.

1. 1. Final Prescription and Order: Once the optimal design is determined, the final prescription is generated, and the scleral lenses are ordered from a specialized laboratory.

Caring for Scleral Lenses:

Proper maintenance and care are essential for ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of scleral lenses. Here are some important care guidelines:

1. 1. Cleaning Solution: Use a preservative-free, unpreserved saline solution or a specialized cleaning solution recommended by the eye care professional to rinse and clean the lenses. Avoid using tap water, as it may contain harmful microorganisms.

1. 1. Lens Insertion and Removal: Before handling the lenses, always wash your hands thoroughly with a mild, fragrance-free soap. Follow the recommended technique for inserting and removing the lenses, which may involve the use of a plunger or a suction cup.

1. 1. Cleaning Routine: Establish a regular cleaning routine, which typically involves rubbing and rinsing the lenses with the cleaning solution. Thoroughly clean all surfaces of the lens, including the vault, using a sterile cleaning pad or a soft brush specifically designed for scleral lenses.

1. 1. Lens Care Products: Use compatible care products, such as lubricating eye drops, rewetting drops, or preservative-free artificial tears, to maintain lens hydration and enhance comfort.

1. 1. Follow-up Visits: Regularly schedule follow-up visits with your eye care professional to monitor the health of your eyes and evaluate the fit and performance of the lenses. They may make necessary adjustments or suggest modifications to optimize your vision and comfort.

Conclusion:

Scleral lenses offer an effective solution for individuals with keratoconus, providing improved vision, comfort, and stability. By following the fitting process and caring for the lenses diligently, individuals can experience significant improvements in visual acuity and overall quality of life. Remember to consult with an experienced eye care professional to ensure personalized care and guidance throughout the journey of wearing scleral lenses.