Can I Wear Scleral Lenses with Low Vision?

Scleral lenses are a type of contact lens that can improve your vision if you have a corneal defect. While certainly not a lens that’s often discussed outside an eye doctor’s office, those with low vision may be able to use scleral lenses to improve their vision and even to help with ancillary disorders, like dry eye. Here, we’ll look at how scleral lenses work and what types of conditions it can treat.

How Do Scleral Lenses Work?

Scleral lenses don’t rest on the iris and the pupil of the eye, instead resting on the whites of your eye. Between the edges is a pocket of artificial tears. These tears both lubricate the eye and secure it against slippage.

A scleral lens essentially papers over a cornea’s defects, masking the distortions and improving functionality. If your low-vision is caused by a defective cornea, you may be able to use scleral lenses as a low-vision aid in Wilmington, NC (and regain your independence).

Can All Eye Doctors Prescribe Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses can be prescribed for any number of conditions, including chronic dry eye and keratoconus. However, it does take specialized knowledge to both diagnose and prescribe these lenses, so you may not find it available with a standard eye doctor in Wilmington, NC.

If you’re looking for specialized treatment for low vision, the staff at The Low Vision Centers of North Carolina can help you learn more about your options, particularly if you’re exploring the markets for the first time.

With technology opening the doors to countless manufacturers, it can be easy to get lost in the sea without some targeted recommendations. Here, you’ll find experts that can both evaluate your condition and help you narrow it all down.

How Can Scleral Lenses Help Me See Better?

Have you ever thought about getting lenses but can’t find anything that comfortably fits you and works simultaneously? You may benefit from customized lenses tailored to fit you better and complement your lifestyle.

The quality team at Dr. Edward Paul, OD, Ph.D. of Asheville, NC, is proud to serve the local community with exceptional eye care services, including custom lenses, which can increase your vision and lead to a happier and healthier life.

What are Scleral Lenses?

Your “sclera” is the outer white part of your eye. Most contact lenses sit on your cornea, the inner layer that helps you see and interpret the images in your vision. Scleral lenses create a buffer of moisturizing fluid, which fits much better and helps to alleviate pain from various eye conditions.

How Do Scleral Lenses Work?

Scleral lenses have a unique design and are usually made to order so that they fit well and last a long time. Here’s how they work:

Lubricates Dry Eyes

The saline solution in the scleral lenses creates a padding between your cornea and the lens. This not only lubricates your eyes continuously, but it also offers some relief from discomfort.

Fixes Any Irregularities 

Depending on the direction of your optometrist or eye care specialist, your low vision may be due to a misshapen cornea as a result of surgery, trauma, or keratoconus. Scleral lenses provide a great solution in addition to your eyeglasses.

Comfortable and Stable Fit

Scleral lenses have a larger surface area and sit comfortably on your eye. The stable fit makes it easier to wear your lenses in more situations than glasses or traditional lenses.

Your Local Professional Eye Care Specialists

Don’t let eye discomfort take away from your daily activities any longer. During your next appointment with the talented team at Dr. Edward Paul, OD, Ph.D. of Asheville, NC,, you can be sure you are receiving the best care and guidance that you deserve.