Exploring the Unique Applications of Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses are large diameter contact lenses that cover the cornea (the eye's clear front surface) and extend over part of the sclera (the white part of the eye). Unlike traditional contact lenses, which rest directly on the cornea, scleral lenses vault over it, creating a liquid-filled space between the lens and the eye. This design offers significant benefits, particularly for patients with irregular corneas or severe eye conditions that impact vision and comfort.
At Little Lake Family Eye Care, we specialize in fitting scleral lenses for a wide range of eye issues, including some unusual applications where these lenses provide life-changing relief and vision correction.
Scleral Lenses for Facial Paralysis (Bell’s Palsy)
One of the lesser-known uses of scleral lenses is for patients with facial paralysis, such as Bell’s palsy. This condition can weaken the muscles on one side of the face, making it difficult for the patient to close their eyelids fully. When the eyelid cannot close properly, the cornea becomes exposed, leading to dryness, irritation, and potential damage.
Traditionally, patients have had to tape their eyelids shut or wear eye patches to protect the eye. However, scleral lenses offer a more comfortable and effective solution. The lens’s liquid reservoir keeps the eye moist, protecting it from exposure and irritation. This allows patients to avoid the discomfort of taping or patching their eyes, significantly improving their quality of life.
Scleral Lenses for Ocular Scarring from Shingles
Shingles can leave lasting effects on the eye, mainly when it causes scarring on the cornea. These scars can distort vision and lead to ongoing discomfort. Scleral lenses can be a game changer for patients suffering from ocular scarring due to shingles. The smooth, dome-like surface of the lens helps correct vision by creating a new optical surface, while the fluid-filled space soothes and protects the damaged cornea from further irritation.
Patients with corneal scarring from shingles often experience clearer, more comfortable vision with scleral lenses, allowing them to regain their independence and quality of life.
Relief for Severe Dry Eye Syndrome
Scleral lenses are well-known for their ability to relieve dry eye syndrome, particularly in severe cases where other treatments have failed. Conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome or Stevens-Johnson syndrome can cause extreme dryness and discomfort, making it difficult to wear traditional contact lenses or rely on eye drops alone.
The large size and unique design of scleral lenses create a protective fluid reservoir that keeps the eye hydrated throughout the day, reducing dryness, irritation, and redness. For patients with severe dry eyes, scleral lenses can provide long-lasting relief and improved comfort.
Scleral Lenses for Post-Surgical Recovery
Following certain eye surgeries, such as corneal transplants or LASIK, patients may experience irregularities in their corneas that make it difficult to achieve clear vision with glasses or traditional contacts. In these cases, scleral lenses can provide a protective shield over the healing eye, helping to stabilize vision and prevent further damage.
The lenses act as a barrier that promotes healing while offering sharper vision, making them an excellent option for patients recovering from surgery who are struggling with post-surgical vision problems.
Vision Restoration for Patients with Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive condition where the cornea thins and takes on a cone-like shape, distorting vision. In advanced stages, glasses or traditional soft contacts may not provide clear vision. Scleral lenses, however, create a smooth, spherical surface over the cornea, restoring clear vision and comfort for patients with keratoconus.
By offering a stable fit and consistent optical surface, scleral lenses give patients with keratoconus a chance to see clearly and resume daily activities without the frustration of constantly changing vision.
Scleral Lenses for Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD)
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) can occur following a bone marrow transplant when the donor cells attack the recipient’s body, including the eyes. This often leads to severe dry eyes, inflammation, and discomfort. Scleral lenses can help manage these symptoms by keeping the eyes moisturized and protected from further damage.
Patients with GVHD who struggle with dryness or corneal damage can experience significant relief and improved vision quality using scleral lenses.
The Versatility of Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses are far more than just a solution for dry eyes or irregular corneas. Whether you are recovering from surgery, dealing with scarring, or managing a chronic condition like Bell’s palsy or keratoconus, these lenses provide unparalleled comfort and protection. At Little Lake Family Eye Care, we are experienced in fitting scleral lenses to meet the needs of our patients, offering a custom solution that can restore comfort, clarity, and quality of life.
If you are struggling with any of these conditions, we invite you to explore the benefits of scleral lenses at our practice in Barrie. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how scleral lenses can help you achieve clearer vision and greater comfort.