Scleral lenses are specialized contacts that can offer benefits for individuals with eye irregularly shaped corneas. They’re also beneficial for people who have suffered significant trauma to their eyes.Â
These lenses are larger than traditional contact lenses, and they cover the cornea and the whites of the eye (sclera), creating a tear-filled space between the lens and the cornea.Â
At The Scleral Lens and Keratoconus Center at Pacific Rims Optometry in San Francisco, we offer scleral lenses to help people with eye trauma achieve clear vision. Here are some ways scleral lenses can help with trauma management.
Protection and Comfort
Scleral lenses offer relief from pain and discomfort because they protect the cornea and other parts of the eye from exposure to air and irritants.Â
This shields the eye from potential infections and further damage. They also offer a smooth and stable surface for the eye, reducing the irritation caused by eye movements like blinking.Â
If an individual has severe eye trauma, they can get fitted with a prosthetic lens that allows the eye to maintain its shape and function.
Improved Visual Acuity
Sometimes eye trauma causes the cornea to be misshapen, resulting in distorted vision.Â
Scleral lenses create a smooth and even surface over the cornea, which allows light to focus accurately on the retina, leading to clearer vision.Â
They’re also ideal for reducing dry eye symptoms because they’re filled with a saline solution, which also helps with improving visual acuity and eye health.Â
Customized Fit
One of the main benefits of scleral lenses is that they’re custom-made for each patient, meaning they provide a perfect fit every time. This maximizes how well the lens works, ensuring optimal vision correction, comfort, and protection for the eye.
Long-Term Management
Oftentimes, people with severe eye trauma can experience vision problems that persist even after initial treatment has been completed.Â
Scleral lenses can help with the long-term management of eye issues caused by trauma, making it easier for individuals to maintain good vision and quality of life.Â
Regular follow-ups are recommended for patients to ensure that the lenses still offer an ideal fit and that any changes in vision health are spotted and treated swiftly.
Scleral Lenses in San Francisco
Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses offer a custom fit which can benefit people with irregularly shaped corneas caused by eye trauma. If you’ve experienced eye trauma, book an appointment with The Scleral Lens and Keratoconus Center at Pacific Rims Optometry in San Francisco to find out if scleral lenses may be right for you.Â