Scleral lenses are a game-changer for many who need advanced eye care solutions, but they also require specific care to maximize their lifespan and maintain eye health. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about caring for your scleral lenses, from daily cleaning routines to common care mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re new to scleral lenses or a long-time user looking to refine your routine, this complete guide to caring for your scleral lenses will be your go-to resource.

Understanding Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are specialized contact lenses that cover your cornea and extend onto the sclera, the white part of your eye. Unlike traditional soft contact lenses, scleral lenses are larger in size and are known for offering better stability and comfort. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with corneal irregularities, dry eyes, or conditions like keratoconus.

Scleral lenses are filled with a saline solution before being inserted into your eye. This liquid cushion ensures constant hydration and helps correct irregular corneas by creating an even optical surface. Because of their design, these lenses are often the preferred choice for patients who haven’t found relief with other forms of vision correction.

Benefits of Scleral Lenses

The advantages of scleral lenses go far beyond correcting vision. For starters, they provide unparalleled comfort due to their design, which vaults over the sensitive corneal surface. This makes them an excellent option for people with corneal pain or post-surgery discomfort.

Another key benefit is improved vision quality. The rigid material of scleral lenses can correct irregularities in the cornea that soft lenses or glasses may not fully address. They are also lifesavers for people with severe dry eye syndrome because of their ability to maintain constant hydration throughout the day.

Lastly, their durability means you won’t need to replace them as often as traditional contacts, making them cost-effective in the long run. Many people find that scleral lenses enhance their vision and quality of life.

How To Care for Your Scleral Lenses

Taking proper care of scleral lenses is essential to keep them in top shape and ensure the health of your eyes. Unlike standard contact lenses, scleral lenses require specific steps for cleaning and storage. Follow these recommendations to protect your eyes and prolong the lifespan of your lenses.

Cleaning and Hygiene Practices

Thorough cleaning is a non-negotiable part of caring for your scleral lenses. Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling your lenses to prevent any contamination. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel, as even small particles can damage the surface of the lens.

When cleaning your lenses, use a lens-specific cleaning solution. DO NOT use tap water or saliva, as these can introduce harmful bacteria and lead to eye infections. Gently rub both sides of the lens with the cleaning solution for the recommended time, then rinse it thoroughly with a saline solution. Regular cleaning removes protein deposits and debris, ensuring clear vision and optimal comfort.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage of scleral lenses is just as important as cleaning them. Keep your lenses in a clean, dry lens case filled with a sterilized solution recommended by your eye care professional. Replace the lens solution daily, and never top it off with the previous day’s solution.

The lens storage case should also be cleaned and dried regularly to prevent bacterial contamination. Ideally, you should replace it every three months or as instructed by your optometrist. These steps may seem small, but they play a big role in keeping your lenses and eyes in excellent condition.

Common Mistakes in Scleral Lens Care

Even with the best intentions, making mistakes in scleral lens care is easy. One common error is not cleaning the lenses thoroughly enough. Skipping or rushing the cleaning process can lead to lens deposits or even infections over time.

Another mistake is handling lenses with wet or dirty hands, which increases the risk of transferring bacteria to your eye. Similarly, using tap water instead of saline or cleaning solutions can introduce harmful microorganisms to the lenses.

Lastly, some users neglect to check their scleral lenses for scratches or damage before inserting them. Damaged lenses can cause discomfort and harm your eyes, so be sure to inspect them as part of your daily routine.

Troubleshooting Lens Issues

If you experience discomfort or blurry vision while using your scleral lenses, a few troubleshooting steps can help. First, check the lens for debris or air bubbles beneath the lens surface. Both issues can be resolved by removing the lens, cleaning it, and reinserting it correctly.

If fogging occurs, consider using eye drops designed for scleral lenses. These drops help maintain a consistent layer of hydration and prevent deposits that may cause haze.

Should discomfort persist, it’s crucial to consult your eye care professional. Persistent issues can be a sign that the fit of your lens needs to be adjusted or that there is an underlying issue that requires attention.

The Importance of Regular Check-ups

Regular check-ups with your eye doctor are critical to maintaining your scleral lenses and overall eye health. These appointments are an opportunity to ensure your lenses fit correctly and that your eyes are not experiencing any adverse effects.

Your eye care provider can also assess the condition of your lenses and identify any scratches or wear that could compromise their performance. Regular visits help catch potential issues early and allow you to ask questions and refine your cleaning routine under professional guidance.

Protect Your Vision with Proper Care

Caring for your scleral lenses is about more than just preserving the lenses themselves—it’s about protecting your eye health and ensuring you get the best possible vision every day. From meticulous cleaning practices to regular check-ups, adhering to the steps outlined above will help you enjoy all the benefits of scleral lenses.

If you’re unsure about any aspect of scleral lens care, always consult your eye care professional. Taking the time to follow these guidelines not only prolongs the lifespan of your lenses but also ensures that your eyes are in the best possible condition.

This guide to caring for your scleral lenses is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. For personal recommendations, always consult your optometrist or eye care provider.