DOCTORS AT THOMPSON OPTICS HAVE SIGNIFICANT EXPERIENCE FITTING SCLERAL LENSES.
“WE HAVE FIT OVER 10,000 LENSES“
At Thompson Optics in Edmonton, we provide advanced fitting examinations for specialty contact lenses. We custom fit scleral lenses to those with corneal irregularities due to LASIK eye surgery complications, keratoconus, astigmatism, dry eye, or other ocular conditions.
What are Scleral Lenses?
Because they are larger than conventional GP lenses, scleral lenses are more stable on the eye. They also provide initial comfort similar to soft lenses.
If you want to wear contact lenses but have had trouble wearing them in the past — or you’ve been told you are not a good candidate for contacts — scleral contact lenses may be the solution you are looking for.
Scleral lenses are comfortable despite their size. First-time scleral lens users often worry that the lenses won’t be comfortable, mostly because of their size and rigidity. While scleral lenses are considerably bigger than standard soft lenses, they are just as comfortable — if not more so.
These large-diameter gas permeable (GP) lenses offer the same advantages that conventional GP lenses have compared with soft contacts.
They are called “scleral” lenses because, instead of covering only a portion of the cornea (like conventional GP lenses), these large GP lenses vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the “white” of the eye (the sclera).
Because of their size, scleral lenses are more stable on the eye than conventional GP lenses — so they are less likely to accidentally dislodge from the eye. This stability also can make them more comfortable than conventional GP lenses; scleral lenses provide initial comfort similar to soft lenses, especially for sensitive eyes or irregularly shaped corneas.
Thompson Optics Scleral Lens Successes
Scleral Lenses for Keratoconus
Scleral lenses are a great solution for those with Keratoconus, as they offer sharp vision and improved comfort.
Scleral Lenses for Post Corneal Graft
Scleral contact lenses are an excellent choice for patients requiring vision correction following a corneal graft, thanks to the high level of comfort and hydration they provide.
8 Benefits of Scleral Lenses
Here are 8 reasons why scleral contact lenses may be beneficial for you
What Others Are Saying About Us
I referred a patient from my office to see the optometrist at Thompson optics for a specialty contact lens fitting . The patient was suffering from a condition called Keratoconus. They offered him scleral lenses. The patient now has very good vision, I am very happy for my patient. I also thank Thompson Optics staff for the great work, service and patient care they offered.
Types of Scleral Lenses
There are three categories of scleral lenses, based on size and where the lenses have their primary contact with the front surface of the eye:
Corneo-scleral lenses and semi-scleral lenses are much larger larger than conventional GP lenses and rest near the junction between the cornea and the sclera.
Mini-scleral lenses vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the anterior sclera.
Full scleral lenses are the largest scleral lenses and provide the greatest amount of clearance between the back surface of the lens and the cornea.
All modern scleral lenses are made with highly breathable, rigid gas permeable lens materials. So though scleral lenses cover the entire cornea, plenty of oxygen reaches the front surface of the eye to keep it healthy and comfortable.
Keratoconus and Scleral Contact Lenses
Keratoconus is an increasingly common eye condition that affects the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, by causing it to take on a cone shape, rather than the normal rounded shape. Common keratoconus symptoms include light sensitivity, foggy vision, eye irritation and headaches.
Treatment for keratoconus depends on how advanced it is, and may vary from simple eyeglasses and contact lenses for minor cases, to keratoconus surgery such as corneal cross-linking for more severe cases.
Even if your keratoconus is advanced, however, surgery may not be your only option. Scleral lenses are an excellent non-invasive solution and are among the best contact lenses for sensitive eyes and keratoconus.
Want to learn more about how scleral lenses can help you? Contact us today!
Are you a good candidate?
Generally, anyone interested in achieving the best vision possible with contact lenses can be a candidate for scleral lenses. But scleral GP lenses are particularly helpful for the following conditions:
Irregular corneas. Vision problems caused by an irregularly shaped cornea — whether naturally occurring, due to an eye condition such as keratoconus, or resulting from eye surgery — typically cannot be fully corrected with glasses or soft contact lenses. Scleral lenses typically will provide sharper vision for these eyes.
Hard-to-fit eyes. If your eyes cannot be comfortably fitted with conventional GP lenses or the shape of your eye causes the lenses to dislodge too easily from your eyes (during sports, for example), scleral lenses can provide a more comfortable and secure fit.
Dry eyes. If your eyes are too dry for conventional contact lenses, scleral lenses can help. In particular, the generous space between the back surface of full scleral lenses and the cornea acts as a tear reservoir to keep the front of your eye more moist and comfortable.
Learn More about Scleral Lenses | FAQ
It is our strong belief that one’s quality of life is profoundly associated with one’s vision. Vision problems, whether due to keratoconus, LASIK, ocular trauma corneal irregularities, or dry eye syndrome, affect all aspects of a patient’s life.
Relieve your discomfort by scheduling a consultation with our optometrists and we’ll help you find the best solution for your condition and lifestyle.
Learn More About Scleral Lenses
