Skip to main content


Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral lenses are rigid contact lenses for hard-to-fit patients and are ideal for people with a vision prescription that exceeds the standard parameters of soft contacts.

Proudly serving Alpha, NJ.

What are scleral lenses?

Scleral lenses are hard-to-fit contacts and are rigid gas permeable lenses with an extra-large diameter. They completely cover your cornea and rest on the whites of your eye, the sclera. Scleral lenses cause clear vision by covering the irregular corneal surface with a rounded optical surface. Even if you have keratoconus you can wear Scleral Lenses.

The shape of scleral lenses creates a bridge over the eye and causes a gap that fills with tears. This little pouch of tears makes the eye more lubricated and helps dry eye patients. How to Insert & Care for Scleral Lenses?

Eye doctor, young man wearing scleral contact lenses in Alpha, NJ

How safe are scleral lenses?

Although this may be the first time you have heard of scleral lenses, they aren’t a new invention. In fact, they are the oldest type of contact lenses, invented in the early 16th century by Leonardo da Vinci.

However, the first prototypes that were manufactured in Europe were not very permeable to oxygen. As a result, they caused many negative side effects, such as corneal swelling.

Nowadays, modern scleral lenses are designed and crafted with precise technology, new materials, and computer-driven lathes. This leads to a higher level of safety and comfort.

Contemporary sclerals have a high oxygen permeability, which reduces the risk of eye complications.

Patients with keratoconus can have crystal-clear vision along with protection of the sensitive corneal surface.

cornealtopography girl

Scleral Lens Fitting

The eye doctor will map your cornea using advanced corneal topography equipment. This generates a detailed diagram of your cornea, which is used to make customized scleral contact lenses.

We equip our office with the newest technologies in order to ensure an efficient eye care experience and lenses that fit you perfectly.

Is it difficult to insert and care for scleral lenses?

It may be hard for you to insert scleral lenses at the beginning, but our optometrists can provide you with proper training and instruction.

After a short adjustment period, you will be a pro at putting your lenses in.

Care for scleral lenses is the same as with regular contacts. Clean then and store them with contact lens solution right after removal.

Talk to your doctor to find out the best contact lens solution for you.

When Are Scleral Lenses An Effective Option?

Typically, our eye care professionals prescribe scleral lenses typically for patients with keratoconus, corneal dystrophies and degenerations, and in the case of corneal scarring.

In addition, they are helpful for people with extreme dry eye syndrome, chronic inflammatory conditions, Sjogren's disease, and other specific conditions. Many of our patients who try scleral lenses report that they are pleased to finally enjoy sharp and comfortable vision!

Scleral lenses can also be the ideal treatment for people with a vision prescription that exceeds the standard parameters of soft contacts.

Contact our optometrists to schedule a consultation at our optometry practice. We offer expert fittings for scleral lenses and a premium selection of these specialty contacts for hard-to-fit vision conditions.

More about scleral lenses...
Eye doctor, woman putting on a scleral contact lens in Alpha, NJ

There are two basic methods of removing scleral contact lenses: with your fingers, or with the aid of a plunger.

Optometrist, african american women wearing scleral contact lenses in Alpha, NJ

Eye doctors will evaluate your cornea using first-rate skill and the latest optometric technology.

Eye doctor, middle aged man smiling in Alpha, NJ

The lens has many advantages which can make contact lens wear an option for those who have previously been told otherwise.