Scleral Lenses for Mild Keratoconus in Michigan

If you have been recently diagnosed with mild keratoconus, you may be feeling uncertain about your future vision. The good news is that early intervention can preserve your sight and significantly improve your quality of life.

Michigan Contact Lens specializes in providing custom scleral lenses designed for individuals in the early stages of keratoconus. Led by Dr. Shira Kresch, a trusted eye care specialist known across Michigan for her expertise in advanced lens fitting, our clinic helps patients in Detroit, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and surrounding cities achieve stable, comfortable, and crystal-clear vision.

Our goal is simple, to protect your eyes, correct your vision, and help you live without visual limitations.

What Happens in the Early Stage

Mild keratoconus is the initial stage of a progressive eye condition where the cornea gradually thins and bulges into a cone-like shape. This irregular shape distorts how light enters your eye, leading to blurred or fluctuating vision.

At this stage, the corneal change is subtle but noticeable, often showing symptoms such as:

• Mild blurring or double vision
• Increased light sensitivity or glare
• Eye strain or frequent squinting
• Rapid prescription changes
• Difficulty seeing clearly at night

Although mild keratoconus doesn’t usually cause severe vision loss, it’s the most important time to act. Early management not only improves your sight but can also slow or prevent further corneal changes.

Why Scleral Lenses Are the Best Option for Mild Keratoconus

Traditional eyeglasses or soft contact lenses may no longer provide crisp vision once the cornea starts changing shape. This is where scleral lenses make a real difference.

Unlike regular lenses that rest directly on the cornea, scleral lenses vault over the irregular surface and rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera). This creates a smooth optical surface and a fluid-filled cushion between the lens and the cornea, which corrects distortions and enhances comfort.

Key Benefits of Scleral Lenses for Mild Keratoconus

Superior Visual Clarity: Corrects irregularities on the cornea for sharper, more stable vision.
Exceptional Comfort: The lens never touches the sensitive corneal tissue, reducing irritation.
Hydrating Tear Reservoir: Keeps the cornea moist all day, preventing dryness and discomfort.
Stable Fit: Perfect for active individuals or those who struggle with lens movement.
Protective Barrier: Shields the cornea from environmental irritants and mechanical stress.

When fitted by a specialist like Dr. Shira Kresch, scleral lenses are not only safe but also one of the most effective non-surgical solutions for managing mild keratoconus.

How Early Fitting Can Preserve Vision

Keratoconus is a progressive condition, meaning it can worsen over time if not managed properly. Early use of scleral lenses can help in multiple ways:

• Preventing further distortion: The lens stabilizes the cornea and minimizes visual fluctuations.
• Delaying surgical intervention: Many patients avoid or postpone corneal cross-linking or transplants through consistent scleral lens wear.
• Improving long-term comfort: Early adaptation ensures your eyes remain healthy and accustomed to lens wear as the condition evolves.

Michigan Contact Lens often tells our patients, the earlier we begin, the better the results.

The Michigan Contact Lens Fitting Process

Your eyes are unique, and so should be your lenses. That’s why every scleral lens fitting at Michigan Contact Lens follows a precise, patient-focused process to ensure unmatched comfort and clarity.

Comprehensive Eye Examination

Dr. Shira Kresch begins with a detailed eye exam to assess the overall health of your eyes and the stage of keratoconus. Using advanced diagnostic tools, she evaluates corneal thickness, curvature, and tear film stability.

This step ensures an accurate understanding of your eye’s anatomy before designing your lenses.

Advanced Corneal Mapping

We use state-of-the-art imaging technology to create a 3D map of your cornea. This high-resolution scan helps design a lens that precisely follows the contours of your eye, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit.

Each cornea is unique, this digital mapping ensures your lens performs optimally for both comfort and vision quality.

Trial Lens Assessment

You’ll test a trial scleral lens to evaluate comfort and vision clarity. Dr. Kresch observes how the lens settles on your eye and makes micro-adjustments as needed. This hands-on step ensures you leave the office seeing clearly, without dryness or irritation.

Custom Lens Fabrication

Once the ideal fit is determined, your custom scleral lenses are manufactured using high-quality oxygen-permeable materials. These lenses allow your eyes to “breathe,” keeping them healthy for daily wear.

Training and Care Education

We take time to guide you through insertion, removal, and cleaning routines. Our team ensures you’re confident and comfortable using your lenses independently.

Follow-Up and Adjustments

Within a few weeks, you’ll return for a follow-up visit. This appointment helps confirm that your lenses remain comfortable and your vision stays stable.

Dr. Kresch may make small adjustments to ensure optimal fit as your eyes adapt.

Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

While scleral lenses are excellent for moderate to severe keratoconus, patients in the mild stage benefit significantly from early adoption.

You’re a great candidate if you:

• Struggle to achieve a clear vision with glasses or soft contacts
• Experience glare or halos when driving at night
• Have mild corneal irregularities confirmed by your eye doctor
• Want a long-term, non-surgical solution to stabilize your vision

Michigan Contact Lens believes that mild keratoconus doesn’t have to limit your life,  it simply requires the right approach.

Serving Patients Across Michigan

We proudly serve patients from Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and surrounding areas. Whether you are seeking your first scleral lens fitting or looking for a specialist to fine-tune your current lenses, Michigan Contact Lens is your trusted resource for advanced keratoconus care in Michigan.

Our statewide services mean that no matter where you live, you have access to the latest lens technology and compassionate, experienced care guided by Dr. Kresch.

Why Choose Michigan Contact Lens?

Specialist Expertise: Dr. Shira Kresch has extensive experience in treating complex corneal conditions with precision scleral lens fittings.
Cutting-Edge Equipment: We utilize digital corneal mapping and topography systems to achieve exact lens customization.
Personalized Guidance: Each patient receives one-on-one care and clear education about lens handling, hygiene, and maintenance.
Statewide Service: Our clinic welcomes patients from all over Michigan — from the busy streets of Detroit to the calm suburbs of Ann Arbor.
Proven Results: Our patients consistently report better vision, improved comfort, and renewed confidence in daily life.

Michigan Contact Lens eyes are never treated as “one-size-fits-all.” Every fitting is personal, precise, and backed by years of clinical success.

Take Control of Your Vision Today

If you’re living with mild keratoconus, there’s no reason to wait until your vision declines. Early scleral lens fitting offers the chance to stabilize your sight, protect your cornea, and enjoy a clear view of life again.

Michigan Contact Lens, advanced technology and personalized care ensure your lenses are as unique as your eyes.

Serving Detroit, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and all of Michigan, we invite you to schedule a consultation today.

Book your appointment with Dr. Shira Kresch and experience the difference precision scleral lens care can make for mild keratoconus.

Frequently Asked Questions