Are Scleral Lenses Right for Your Eyes? Signs You Might Need Specialty Contact Lenses

If you’ve struggled with traditional contact lenses or glasses, you’re not alone. Many people in Seattle experience vision challenges that go beyond what standard corrective lenses can fix. Whether it’s dry eye discomfort, keratoconus, or post-surgical vision issues, scleral lenses might be the solution you've been looking for.
 

At Eye Clinics of Seattle, we specialize in advanced vision care, and scleral lenses are one of the most effective options for patients needing custom-fit vision correction. But how do you know if these specialty lenses are right for you? Let’s explore the signs that indicate scleral lenses might be a good fit for your eyes.
 

You Struggle with Dry Eye Syndrome

Seattle’s weather is known for its cooler temperatures and moisture in the air, but that doesn’t mean you’re immune to dry eye. If your eyes constantly feel irritated, red, or dry, even with artificial tears or prescription treatments, scleral lenses can provide relief. These lenses create a reservoir of moisture between the lens and your cornea, keeping your eyes hydrated throughout the day.
 

You Have Keratoconus or an Irregular Cornea

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and become cone-shaped, leading to blurry and distorted vision. Traditional contact lenses often fail to provide stable vision for keratoconus patients. Scleral lenses, on the other hand, rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye) and create a smooth optical surface, significantly improving vision and comfort.
 

You’ve Had LASIK or Other Corneal Surgery but Still Have Vision Problems

While LASIK and other refractive surgeries are designed to correct vision, some patients experience complications or irregularities post-surgery. If you have light sensitivity, halos, or fluctuating vision that glasses can’t correct, scleral lenses can help by providing a uniform surface for light to enter the eye, reducing visual distortions.
 

You Can’t Wear Traditional Contact Lenses Comfortably

Some people find that soft contact lenses shift too much, gas permeable lenses are too uncomfortable, or they experience frequent lens-related irritation. If you’ve tried different types of contact lenses without success, scleral lenses might be the answer. Since they don’t touch the cornea directly, they offer superior comfort and stability.
 

You Have Severe Astigmatism

Regular astigmatism can often be corrected with glasses or soft toric contact lenses. However, if you have high or irregular astigmatism, those options may not provide crisp, stable vision. Scleral lenses are custom-designed to fit the unique shape of your eye, offering clearer and more consistent vision.
 

Discover if Scleral Lenses Are Right for You at Eye Clinics of Seattle

Living in the Pacific Northwest means dealing with a variety of environmental factors that can impact eye health, from pollen and seasonal allergies to long hours in front of screens on overcast days. Scleral lenses not only improve vision but also provide a protective barrier against dryness and irritation.
 

At Eye Clinics of Seattle, we’ll assess your eye health, discuss your vision needs, and determine if scleral lenses are the right fit for you. Whether you’re exploring scleral lenses for the first time or have been frustrated with other vision correction options, we’re here to help.
 

If you’re ready to experience clearer, more comfortable vision, schedule a consultation with Eye Clinics of Seattle. Contact our offices in Seattle, Washington, located in Queen Anne, Ballard, or Roosevelt, by calling (206) 282-8120 to book an appointment today.