Scleral Lenses

Scleral Lenses in St. George, UT

If you’re living with blurred vision, ongoing dryness, or a complex eye condition that makes traditional contact lenses uncomfortable, you’re not alone. Many patients struggle to find a solution that truly improves both clarity and comfort. At Paradise Canyon Eye Care, we specialize in Scleral Lenses in St. George, UT, helping patients with complex vision needs achieve clearer, more comfortable sight.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas-permeable contact lenses designed to vault over the cornea and rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera). Unlike traditional soft or standard rigid lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface while maintaining a fluid reservoir between the lens and the eye.

This unique design serves two important purposes:

• It helps correct irregular corneas by creating a new, uniform refractive surface.

• It keeps the eye continuously hydrated throughout the day.
  
  

Because of their size and custom design, scleral lenses are often more stable and comfortable than smaller rigid lenses.

Who Can Benefit from Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are often recommended for patients who have not had success with traditional contact lenses or glasses. They are especially beneficial for individuals with:

• Keratoconus

• Corneal scarring

• Post-surgical corneas (including LASIK complications)

• Severe dry eye syndrome

• Irregular astigmatism

• Ocular surface disease
  
  

Patients who experience chronic discomfort with standard contact lenses may also find scleral lenses significantly more comfortable. The fluid layer beneath the lens protects the cornea and provides lasting hydration, making it an excellent option for dry and sensitive eyes.

The Scleral Lens Fitting Process

Proper fitting is critical to the success of scleral lenses. Because they are fully customized to each eye, the fitting process is more detailed than a standard contact lens exam. Dr. Fife and his team begin with a comprehensive eye examination and advanced corneal measurements. Using precise diagnostic technology, they map the surface of your eye to ensure the scleral lenses are tailored specifically to your unique shape and visual needs.

The process typically includes:

• A detailed evaluation of your eye health and corneal condition

• Custom measurements to design your lenses

• Trial lens fitting to assess comfort and vision

• Adjustments as needed for optimal performance

• Training on proper insertion, removal, and care
  
  

Because scleral lenses are medical devices designed for complex vision conditions, expert guidance is essential. Dr. Fife takes the time to ensure every patient feels confident and comfortable before leaving the office.

Advantages of Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses offer several advantages over traditional contact lenses:

• Exceptional Vision Quality: By vaulting over the cornea and creating a smooth optical surface, scleral lenses often provide sharper, more stable vision.

• Superior Comfort: Because the lenses rest on the sclera (which is less sensitive than the cornea), many patients report improved comfort compared to rigid gas-permeable lenses.

• Continuous Hydration: The fluid reservoir beneath the lens keeps the eye moist throughout the day, making scleral lenses a powerful solution for moderate to severe dry eye.

• Stability and Durability: Their larger size makes them more stable on the eye, reducing lens movement and improving consistency of vision.
  
  

For many patients, scleral lenses are life-changing - allowing them to return to work, hobbies, and daily activities with renewed clarity and comfort.