Everything You Need to Know About Scleral Contact Lenses
If you struggle with eye conditions that make glasses or regular contact lenses uncomfortable or ineffective, scleral lenses could be the solution you’ve been looking for. Over the last few years, scleral contact lenses have gained massive popularity due to their superior vision correction, comfort, and ability to treat a wide range of eye issues, especially keratoconus.
At Eyes on Brickell, our Miami-based eye clinic, we specialize in advanced contact lens fittings and personalized care. Led by Dr. Antoine Copty, our team ensures every patient gets the right fit and the best outcome.
Below, we answer the most common questions about scleral contact lenses to help you decide if they’re right for you.
What Are Scleral Lenses?
Scleral contact lenses are large-diameter, gas-permeable lenses designed to vault over the cornea and rest on the white part of your eye (the sclera). This creates a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea, keeping your eyes hydrated and masking corneal irregularities for clearer vision.
Because of their size and design, scleral lenses are more stable and comfortable than traditional rigid or soft lenses, making them ideal for patients with irregular corneas or severe dry eyes.
How Do Scleral Lenses Work?
Unlike standard contacts, which sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses “dome” over the surface of the eye. The space between the lens and the cornea is filled with sterile saline solution, which smooths out corneal irregularities, enhances hydration, and delivers crisp, stable vision.
This makes scleral contact lenses an excellent choice for patients with keratoconus, high astigmatism, or post-surgical corneal changes where regular lenses fail.
Who is a Candidate for Scleral Lenses?
You may be a good candidate for scleral contact lenses if you have:
- Keratoconus or other irregular corneas
- High astigmatism
- Severe dry eye syndrome
- Corneal injuries or degeneration
- Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
- Post-LASIK or corneal transplant complications
Even if you’ve been told in the past that contacts aren’t an option for you, a customized scleral lens fitting could change that. Many of our Miami patients are surprised by how much their vision improves with these lenses.
Scleral Lenses for High Prescriptions & Astigmatism
Patients with very high prescriptions or irregular corneas often face limited options for vision correction. Scleral lenses provide:
- Enhanced comfort and vision stability
- Reduced glare and halos
- Improved hydration for dry eyes
- Non-surgical correction for astigmatism and keratoconus
By creating a smooth optical surface over the eye, scleral contact lenses help light focus correctly on the retina, ensuring sharp, consistent vision all day.
How Are Scleral Lenses Fitted?
A proper fit is crucial for comfort and effectiveness. At Eyes on Brickell, we use advanced diagnostic tools such as:
- Corneal topography – 3D mapping of the cornea
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – high-definition imaging of the eye
Comfort: Are Scleral Lenses Better Than Regular Contacts?
Absolutely. Because scleral lenses rest on the sclera, which has far fewer nerve endings than the cornea, they’re typically more comfortable than traditional contacts.
They also provide continuous moisture to the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation. While there’s an adjustment period at first, most patients find scleral contact lenses much easier to wear long-term.
How to Insert and Remove Scleral Lenses
Because of their larger size, inserting scleral lenses can feel tricky at first. We provide personalized training to all our patients to make the process easy. Typically, a special plunger or inserter is used to place the lens, and the same tool helps with removal.
Like all contact lenses, scleral lenses should never be worn overnight to avoid depriving the cornea of oxygen.
Where to Get Scleral Lenses Near Me
If you’re searching online for “scleral lenses near me” or “scleral lenses for keratoconus,” Eyes on Brickell is your go-to destination in Miami. Our team specializes in fitting custom scleral contact lenses to ensure you get the best vision and comfort possible.
We’ve helped countless patients who had given up hope of clear vision — including professional athletes and surgeons — see clearly again with the right scleral lenses.
Finding an optometrist who specializes in scleral contact lenses is essential to achieving the best fit and visual results. At Eyes on Brickell, we offer comprehensive eye exams and custom lens fittings to help you see your world clearly and comfortably.
If you think scleral lenses could benefit you, schedule an appointment with our team today. Let us show you how these advanced lenses can transform your vision.
We welcome you at 2885 SW 3rd Ave, Suite 100, Miami, FL 33129. Book your appointment now.
1. What are scleral lenses used for?
Scleral lenses are designed to treat irregular corneas, severe dry eye, keratoconus, high astigmatism, and post-surgical complications. They vault over the cornea and create a tear reservoir for clear, stable vision.
2. Are scleral contact lenses covered by insurance?
Coverage varies. Some vision or medical insurance plans cover scleral contact lenses if they’re medically necessary, especially for keratoconus or corneal disease. Your provider can verify your benefits.
3. How long do scleral lenses last?
With proper care, scleral contact lenses typically last 1–2 years. Regular checkups and professional cleanings help extend their life and ensure your prescription remains accurate.
4. Are scleral lenses comfortable to wear?
Yes. Because scleral lenses rest on the white part of the eye (with fewer nerve endings) and hold a cushion of saline beneath them, most patients find them more comfortable than standard contacts once they adapt.
5. Where can I find scleral lenses near me?
If you’re searching for “scleral lenses near me” in Miami, visit Eyes on Brickell for expert fittings. Our team customizes each pair for your unique eye shape and condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scleral Lenses
