Adjusting to Scleral Lenses: Comfort and Vision Expectations

If you’ve recently been prescribed scleral lenses, you’re taking an exciting step toward clearer, more comfortable vision. These specialized contact lenses are designed to rest on the white part of your eye (the sclera) and vault over the cornea, creating a smooth optical surface that corrects even complex vision problems. While the benefits are impressive, it’s natural to have questions about what to expect as you adjust to wearing them.

Understanding the Fit and Feel of Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are larger than standard contacts, which allows them to hold a reservoir of fluid between the lens and your cornea. This cushion not only enhances comfort but also provides consistent hydration for those with dry eye syndrome or corneal irregularities like keratoconus.

Because scleral lenses don’t touch your cornea directly, most patients find them surprisingly comfortable once they’ve adapted. However, during the first few days or weeks, you may notice a sense of awareness - similar to how new glasses can take time to get used to. This is completely normal as your eyes adjust to the lens size and insertion process.

Tips for a Smooth Adjustment Period

• Follow your optometrist’s instructions carefully: Proper cleaning and storage are essential to maintaining lens comfort and eye health.

• Practice inserting and removing the lenses: Scleral lenses require a bit of technique, but with guidance and practice, it quickly becomes routine.

• Use preservative-free saline: Always fill your lenses with the recommended saline solution before inserting to maintain the hydrating layer.

• Be patient with adaptation: Some mild awareness or light sensitivity at first is expected, but if you experience discomfort or blurred vision that persists, contact your optometrist.

Vision Expectations with Scleral Lenses

One of the biggest advantages of scleral lenses is their ability to deliver clear, stable vision, even in cases where glasses or soft contact lenses have fallen short. The fluid layer under the lens masks corneal irregularities, allowing light to focus properly on the retina.

Most patients notice a dramatic improvement in sharpness and clarity, especially if they have conditions such as keratoconus, corneal scarring, or post-surgical complications. As your eyes adapt and your doctor fine-tunes the fit, your vision may continue to improve during the first few follow-up visits.

When to Contact Your Eye Doctor

If you experience redness, significant discomfort, changes in vision, or difficulty with insertion and removal, reach out to your optometrist. A minor lens adjustment or modification can make a big difference in comfort and performance. Regular checkups also ensure that your lenses continue to fit well and that your eyes remain healthy.

Schedule Your Scleral Lens Consultation in Texas City

Adjusting to scleral lenses is a process - but one that pays off with exceptional comfort and clarity. With proper care and guidance from your optometrist, you’ll soon enjoy the benefits of improved vision and lasting eye comfort.

At Texas State Optical Texas City, we specialize in custom-fitting scleral lenses to help patients achieve their best vision possible. Whether you’re new to these lenses or looking to optimize your current fit, our team is here to help. Visit our office in Texas City, Texas, or call (409) 202-6984 today.