Dry eye syndrome can cause constant irritation, burning, redness, and blurry vision, making it difficult to wear regular contact lenses. Many patients with moderate to severe dry eyes are told that soft contact lenses may worsen their symptoms. Scleral lenses for dry eyes are designed to provide clear vision while keeping the surface of the eye hydrated and protected throughout the day.

Scleral lenses are large, custom fitted contact lenses that rest on the white part of the eye instead of the cornea. Because the lens holds a layer of fluid between the eye and the lens, it helps keep the eye moist and comfortable. This makes scleral lenses an effective treatment option for patients with chronic dry eye who cannot tolerate standard contact lenses.

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that happens when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tear quality is poor. Tears are necessary to keep the eye surface smooth, clear, and comfortable. When the eye does not stay properly lubricated, symptoms such as burning, redness, irritation, and blurred vision may occur.

Dry eye can be caused by aging, medical conditions, medications, environmental factors, or long term contact lens wear. In more severe cases, dry eye may damage the surface of the eye and make vision unstable.

Learn more about the dry syndrome and dry eye treatments.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Patients with dry eye syndrome may experience

• Red or irritated eyes
• Burning or stinging sensation
• Watery eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Gritty or sandy feeling
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Eye fatigue

If these symptoms continue, specialty contact lenses such as scleral lenses may be recommended to protect the eye surface and improve comfort.

How Scleral Lenses Help Dry Eyes?

Scleral lenses are designed to vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye. Before inserting the lens, it is filled with sterile saline solution. This liquid stays between the lens and the eye, creating a constant layer of moisture that helps relieve dryness and irritation.

Because scleral lenses do not touch the cornea, they are often more comfortable for patients with dry eyes. The fluid layer keeps the eye hydrated, protects the surface of the eye, and can help reduce redness, burning, and discomfort.

Scleral lenses are often recommended for patients with severe dry eye, ocular surface disease, or patients who cannot wear regular contact lenses.

Consultation and Fitting Process

Before being fitted with scleral lenses, it is crucial to have a comprehensive consultation with an eye care professional who specializes in fitting specialty lenses. During this consultation, the eye care professional will evaluate the shape of the cornea and assess your specific needs. This may involve taking measurements and conducting various tests to determine the appropriate size and design of the scleral lenses.

The fitting process for scleral lenses is meticulous and requires expertise. The eye care professional will carefully select lenses that provide a comfortable fit and optimal vision correction. They will teach you how to insert, remove, and care for the lenses properly. It’s essential to follow their instructions diligently to ensure the best results.

Maintenance and Care of Scleral Lenses

Proper maintenance and care are crucial for the longevity and effectiveness of scleral lenses. This includes cleaning and disinfecting the lenses as recommended by your eye care professional. They will provide specific instructions on which cleaning solutions to use and how to handle the lenses safely.

Regular follow-up appointments are typically scheduled to monitor the fit and assess any changes in your vision or eye health. It’s important to attend these appointments to address any concerns and make any necessary adjustments to the fit of the lenses.

Benefits of Scleral Lenses for Dry Eyes

Scleral lenses provide several benefits for patients suffering from dry eye syndrome, especially when regular contact lenses or eye drops do not provide enough relief. Because scleral lenses are custom designed to fit the shape of the eye, they can improve comfort, vision, and overall eye health.

Constant hydration
Scleral lenses hold a layer of sterile saline solution between the lens and the cornea. This liquid keeps the surface of the eye moist throughout the day and helps reduce dryness, burning, and irritation.

Improved comfort
Unlike soft contact lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses rest on the sclera. This reduces friction on the sensitive corneal surface and makes them more comfortable for patients with dry eyes.

Clear and more stable vision
Dry eye can cause blurry or fluctuating vision. The smooth surface created by scleral lenses helps light focus properly, which can improve visual clarity and stability.

Protection of the eye surface
Scleral lenses act as a protective barrier over the cornea. This can help the eye heal in patients with severe dryness, corneal damage, or ocular surface disease.

Reduced need for eye drops
Many patients who wear scleral lenses notice that they need artificial tears less often because the lens keeps the eye hydrated for longer periods.

Scleral Lens Specialist in Michigan

Dr. Shira Kresch provides advanced scleral lens exams and custom fittings for patients across Michigan, including Metro Detroit, Troy, Birmingham, and surrounding areas. Patients with severe dry eye often need specialty contact lenses that require detailed measurements and experience to achieve the best results.

Scleral lenses for dry eyes must be carefully fitted to ensure proper comfort and hydration. During the exam, the shape of the cornea, tear film, and eye surface are evaluated to determine the best lens design. With proper fitting and follow up care, many patients with chronic dry eye can achieve clearer vision and improved comfort with scleral lenses.

Frequently Asked Questions