Scleral lenses are ideal for patients with corneal irregularities, dry eyes, and hard-to-fit eyes. Their uniquely large circumference offers the best in visual comfort and clarity. But wearing and caring for your scleral lenses can take some getting used to.
Below are our top 5 tips for anyone who wears scleral lenses. If you have questions about scleral lenses or any other optometric matter, Silicon Valley Eye Physicians in Sunnyvale is here for you.
1. Lens Hygiene is Top Priority
Keeping your scleral lenses hygienic and free of buildup is key in ensuring the clearest possible vision. When you remove them from your eyes, rub them for several seconds with lens cleaner to remove surface debris and bacteria. Then, rinse them on both sides with saline solution before storing them.
Another hygiene tip: Before handling your lenses, be sure to wash your hands with soap and water, and to rinse and dry them with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. Good hygiene will significantly minimize possible complications and keep your eyes feeling fresh.
2. Manage Your Dry Eye
Many patients with dry eye syndrome (DES) choose to wear scleral lenses for their hydrating and soothing properties. While sclerals can offer substantial relief from their dry eye symptoms, patients shouldn’t forget to seek treatment for their DES.
That’s because scleral lenses help manage dry eye, but don’t actually treat it. So, it’s best to follow up with your eye doctor about any eye drops, medications, or at-home remedies to support healthy tears.
3. Use a Cotton Swab For Cleaning
Patients with long fingernails can find it challenging to thoroughly clean their scleral lenses. Rubbing the inside bowl of the lens with a cotton swab and cleaning solution can effectively remove the buildup from the lens. Then, rinse off the cleaning solution with saline to remove the cleaning solution and any lint from the cotton swab.
4. Try Different Insertion Tools
Is your current insertion method not working as smoothly as you’d like? No worries! Ask your eye doctor about different tools you can use, such as the O-ring or applicator ring.
But please only insert your lens with tools that your eye doctor recommends!
5. Follow Up With Your Eye Doctor
Because scleral lenses are customized, they often require a few visits with your optometrist to optimize their fit. Even after the fitting process is complete, follow-ups will help ensure that your lenses are still in good condition.
If your scleral lenses are giving you any trouble at all, we can help. To schedule your scleral lens consultation, call us today!
Silicon Valley Eye Physicians serves patients in Sunnyvale, Los Altos, Mountain View, Cupertino, and throughout Sunnyvale.
Frequently Asked Questions with Our Scleral Lenses Expert in Sunnyvale, California:
Q: How do scleral lenses work?
- A: Scleral lenses rest and vault over the entire sclera (white of the eye), encasing a hydrating reservoir in between the lens and the cornea (front surface of the eye). This allows people with irregular corneas to wear contact lenses, since the lens isn’t in direct contact with the cornea itself.
Q: How long do scleral lenses last?
- A: Scleral lenses generally last 1-2 years, depending on how well you care for them and how your tear film reacts with them. Even so, check-ups every 6 months are recommended to ensure they still fit well and provide clear vision.
References
- https://www.guilfordeye.com/eye-care/4-must-know-tips-for-scleral-lens-wearers/
- https://www.clspectrum.com/issues/2019/february-2019/scleral-lens-tips-and-tricks
- https://www.ouh.nhs.uk/patient-guide/leaflets/files/11038Pscleral.pdf
