Scleral Lenses vs. Traditional Contacts for Keratoconus: What's the Difference?

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape, leading to distorted and blurry vision. For those affected, traditional contact lenses often become uncomfortable or ineffective as the condition advances. That’s where scleral lenses come in.
 

What Are Traditional Contact Lenses?

Traditional soft contact lenses are made of flexible plastic materials that conform to the natural shape of the cornea. While they work well for individuals with mild vision correction needs, they may not provide adequate stability or clarity for those with keratoconus. In the early stages of keratoconus, rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses may offer sharper vision than soft lenses, but they often become uncomfortable as the cornea becomes more irregular.
 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter, gas-permeable contact lenses that rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) rather than the cornea. They create a smooth optical surface by vaulting over the irregular cornea and filling the space in between with a liquid reservoir. This design provides clear, stable vision and exceptional comfort for individuals with advanced keratoconus.
 

Key Differences Between Scleral and Traditional Contacts

Traditional contact lenses sit directly on the cornea, which can lead to significant discomfort for patients with keratoconus, especially as the condition progresses and the cornea becomes more irregular. In contrast, scleral lenses are designed to vault over the cornea entirely and rest on the sclera providing a more comfortable and less irritating fit.
 

Because traditional lenses conform to the shape of the cornea, they may not effectively correct vision when the cornea is distorted, as in keratoconus. Scleral lenses, however, create a smooth and stable refractive surface by covering the irregular cornea, significantly enhancing visual clarity and reducing distortions.
 

Traditional contact lenses can sometimes worsen symptoms of dryness, particularly in individuals with corneal surface issues. Scleral lenses, on the other hand, hold a reservoir of fluid between the lens and the eye, helping to keep the eye hydrated and improving overall comfort throughout the day.
 

On an irregular cornea, traditional lenses often shift or move excessively, which can result in fluctuating or unstable vision. Scleral lenses are larger and designed to remain securely in place on the eye, providing consistent and stable vision even during activities like blinking or eye movement.
 

While traditional contact lenses may be helpful in the early stages of keratoconus, they often fall short as the condition progresses. Scleral lenses are specifically engineered for irregular corneas, making them a highly effective solution for patients with moderate to severe keratoconus.
 

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam at Radiant Eye Care

Keratoconus can be a challenging condition, but advancements in contact lens technology have made it more manageable than ever. Scleral lenses offer a reliable and comfortable alternative to traditional lenses, especially for those with moderate to severe keratoconus. Dr. Patel specializes in fitting custom scleral lenses to help you achieve the best possible vision.
 

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Radiant Eye Care and find out if scleral lenses are the right fit for your vision needs. Visit our office in Elgin, Illinois, or call (847) 874-2020 to book an appointment today.