Scleral Contact Lenses for Keratoconus
We are leaders in fitting Scleral Contact Lenses
Scleral and Miniscleral contact lenses are now one of the most common forms of vision correction for keratoconus and corneal grafts (also known as corneal transplants). They offer a substantial improvement in comfort and stability compared to older small rigid gas permeable contact lenses.
Scleral contact lenses are larger in diameter than typical rigid contact lenses (usually bigger than 14.00mm) and are manufactured from very high oxygen gas permeable contact lens materials. They are used predominantly for the correction of irregular corneas found in conditions including keratoconus, corneal grafts, pellucid marginal degeneration and post-trauma but can also be used for normal corneas.
We fit numerous different scleral lens designs - all tailored to each individual patient, including Zenlens, Rose K2XL, Katt, ICD, SS Max, K series, Eyecon, Forge, and Epicon.
Whilst there are now many excellent scleral lens designs on the market, it should be noted that the biggest factor in achieving a good outcome is how well the optometrist involved designs the lens for each individual patient.
The benefits of Scleral contact lenses compared to small rigid gas permeable contact lenses include:
Substantially better initial comfort
Significantly more stable vision
Many designs incorporate a sealed edge and therefore dust cannot get under the lens
Less need to change contact lenses for small changes in corneal shape
Lower risk of developing an eyelid droop (ptosis) over time
We also use scleral contact lenses for treating damaged ocular surfaces in diseases such as severe dry eye, bullous keratopathy, recurrent corneal erosions, corneal hyperesthesia, Thygieson's SPK, and Stevens Johnson syndrome. They can be used as a fluid reservoir to keep the cornea hydrated to enable both faster and better quality healing and can provide very effective pain relief.
We are pleased to be one of the largest scleral contact lens practices in Australia and regularly fit these lenses ranging from simple to the most complex forms. We can fit toric and multifocal scleral lenses and utilise our own design software to optimise both the vision and comfort for each patient.
