Some eyes respond well to standard contacts. Others tell a different story. If you have tried traditional contacts and felt discomfort, blur, or instability, your eyes may need a different approach to vision correction.
At EverSquare Eye Clinic in Edmonton, we offer scleral lenses to support patients with complex eye conditions who require a more precise and stable approach to vision correction.
What Makes Scleral Lenses Different?
A scleral lens rests on the sclera, which is the white part of the eye, rather than sitting directly on the cornea. This creates space between the lens and the cornea, allowing the lens to vault over the surface of the eye.
That space fills with fluid, forming a smooth optical layer that supports both clear vision and lasting comfort.
1. A Smooth Surface Over an Irregular Cornea
An irregular cornea or one with an irregular shape can scatter light and distort vision. This often happens with eye conditions like keratoconus or corneal scarring. A scleral lens creates a new, even surface, helping light focus properly. Many patients notice improved vision correction compared to glasses or standard contacts.
2. Moisture That Supports Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome can make traditional contact lenses difficult to wear. The fluid layer beneath a scleral lens keeps the eye hydrated throughout the day. For patients in Edmonton, where screen time and indoor environments are common, this added moisture can make a meaningful difference in daily comfort.
3. Consistent Fit for Stable Vision
Because the lens rests on the sclera, it stays in place more reliably than traditional contacts. This leads to stable vision throughout the day without frequent shifting or irritation.
Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?
Many people stop wearing contacts because they feel uncomfortable or fail to deliver clear vision. A scleral lens offers another option for patients with more complex needs.
- Patients with keratoconus: Keratoconus causes the cornea to thin and change shape, leading to distorted vision. Scleral keratoconus contacts in Edmonton create a smooth surface that helps restore clarity and improve daily vision.
- People with an irregular cornea or an irregularly shaped cornea: When the surface of the eye is uneven, light does not focus properly. A scleral lens helps correct this by providing a stable, uniform surface for clearer vision.
- High astigmatism that standard contacts cannot correct: Traditional contact lenses may shift or fail to stay aligned. Scleral lenses stay in place, which supports stable vision throughout the day.
- Dry eye syndrome that limits contact lens wear: Dry eye can make traditional contacts difficult to tolerate. The fluid layer within a scleral lens helps keep the eye hydrated, improving comfort.
- Corneal scarring or past refractive surgery: Changes to the cornea from scarring or surgery can make standard contacts ineffective. A scleral lens vaults over these areas, improving both vision and comfort.
- Anyone who struggled with traditional contact lenses: If standard contacts felt uncomfortable or failed to provide clear vision, a scleral lens offers a more tailored approach to vision correction.
What to Expect During Scleral Lens Fitting
Specialty contact lens fittings take time and precision. Our experienced eye doctor guides each step to support long-term success.
Comprehensive Eye Exams
Your visit begins with detailed eye exams to assess your eye health. Imaging helps map the shape of your cornea and identify any irregularities.
Trial Lenses and Measurements
Trial lenses allow us to evaluate how the lens and the cornea interact. We assess comfort, fit, and vision as we refine measurements. Small adjustments during this stage help create a lens that feels natural and performs well.
Custom Lens Design and Follow-Ups
Your lenses are designed based on your exact measurements. Follow-up visits allow our eye doctor to refine treatment to improve both vision and comfort. This process supports a precise fit tailored to your eyes.
Training for Daily Wear
Scleral lenses require a different routine than traditional contact lenses. Our team shows you how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses safely.
A Personalized Approach to Vision
This process takes more time than fitting standard contacts, though the results often change how patients experience their daily lives. Clearer vision, improved comfort, and greater confidence all contribute to a better quality of life.
Book your eye exam at EverSquare Eye Clinic in Edmonton, Alberta to get eye care that reflects your needs and your goals. Every step is guided, thoughtful, and centered on long-term eye health.
Scleral Lenses FAQs
Are scleral lenses comfortable for long days?
Yes. The fluid layer helps keep the eye hydrated, which supports comfort throughout the day for many patients.
How long does it take to get used to them?
Most patients adjust within a few days to a couple of weeks. Training helps make the process easier.
Can scleral lenses help after refractive surgery?
Yes. They can improve vision for patients who experience irregular cornea changes after surgery.