If you are researching scleral lenses, Downtown Vision provides advanced contact lens care for patients with complex vision needs throughout Northern Nevada, including the Reno, Sparks, and Carson City areas. Below are frequently asked questions on scleral lenses.
1. What are scleral lenses?
Scleral lenses are specialty contact lenses designed to vault over the cornea and rest on the white part of the eye. At Downtown Vision, we use scleral lenses to help patients who need clearer, more stable vision than traditional contacts can provide.
2. Who is a good candidate for scleral lenses?
Patients may be good candidates for scleral lenses if they have keratoconus, severe dry eye, irregular corneas, corneal scarring, or trouble wearing standard contact lenses. We perform a detailed evaluation to see if scleral lenses are the right fit.
3. Can scleral lenses help with keratoconus?
Yes, scleral lenses are often a strong option for patients with keratoconus. Because the lens creates a smooth optical surface over the irregular cornea, it can improve clarity and comfort for many patients.
4. How are scleral lenses different from regular contacts?
Unlike regular soft contacts, scleral lenses are larger and do not sit directly on the cornea. This design can provide better stability, improved comfort, and clearer vision when standard contacts are not enough.
5. Are scleral lenses comfortable for patients?
Many patients find scleral lenses comfortable because they rest on the sclera rather than the sensitive corneal surface. The fluid reservoir beneath the lens can also help keep the eye hydrated throughout the day.
6. Can scleral lenses help with dry eye?
Scleral lenses may help some patients with dry eye by holding a layer of preservative-free saline against the eye. This can reduce friction and support more comfortable vision, especially for patients with chronic dryness or irritation.
7. How long does a scleral lens fitting take?
A scleral lens fitting usually takes more time than a standard contact lens fitting because the lenses are highly customized. We evaluate the shape of your eye, check the lens fit carefully, and make adjustments as needed.
8. Do scleral lenses work for patients who failed regular contacts?
Yes, patients who have struggled with regular contacts may still do well with scleral lenses. We often recommend them for hard-to-fit eyes because they are designed around the unique shape and needs of each patient’s eyes.
9. Can I wear scleral lenses all day?
Many patients can wear scleral lenses for most of the day once they adapt to them. Your ideal wearing schedule depends on your eye health, comfort, lens fit, and the reason the lenses were prescribed.
10. Are scleral lenses hard to insert and remove?
Scleral lenses can take practice, but most patients become comfortable with insertion and removal after training. We take the time to teach proper handling, cleaning, and lens care before you begin wearing them regularly.
11. How do I know if scleral lenses are right for me?
If you have blurry vision, corneal irregularities, dry eye, or contact lens discomfort, a scleral lens consultation can help determine your options. We evaluate your eyes and explain whether scleral lenses match your needs.
12. Are scleral lenses only for severe eye conditions?
No, scleral lenses are not only for severe cases. While they are commonly used for complex conditions, they may also help patients who want better comfort, sharper vision, or a more stable fit than standard contacts offer.
13. How often do scleral lenses need to be replaced?
Replacement timing for scleral lenses depends on your prescription, lens condition, eye health, and care habits. We monitor your lenses during follow-up visits and let you know when replacement is recommended.
14. Can scleral lenses improve vision after corneal surgery?
Scleral lenses may improve vision for some patients after corneal surgery, depending on the shape and health of the eye. Because every case is different, we recommend a personalized evaluation before deciding on treatment.
15. Why choose Downtown Vision for scleral lenses?
Patients choose Downtown Vision for scleral lenses because we provide customized contact lens care for a wide range of vision needs. Our team serves patients across Northern Nevada, including Reno, Sparks, and Carson City, with a focus on clear vision, comfort, and long-term eye health.
Schedule a consultation at Downtown Vision to learn whether scleral lenses are right for you. Contact our office in Reno or Carson City, NV, by calling (775) 322-4061 or (775) 882-3977 to book an appointment today.