By Cornea and Contact Lens Institute of Minnesota — specialty contact lens care for patients across Edina
Scleral lenses have changed what many people can do. They help those who have trouble with glasses, soft contacts, or regular gas-permeable lenses.
Scleral lenses sit over the cornea and rest gently on the white part of the eye, called the sclera. This design creates a smooth, fluid-filled surface. It can provide clear vision and surprising comfort, even if the front of the eye is uneven or sensitive.
If someone told you that you are “not a contact lens candidate,” this guide can help. It will show you if a scleral lens evaluation at Cornea and Contact Lens Institute of Minnesota in Edina is the right next step for you.
What Makes Scleral Lenses Different?
- A tear reservoir for comfort: Each lens is filled with sterile saline before application. That fluid layer cushions the cornea and smooths out optical irregularities for clear vision.
- Stable optics, stable fit: The large diameter provides excellent stability—great for active lifestyles and for those who’ve struggled with lenses popping out.
- Customization that matches your eye: Modern measurements allow precise control of lens diameter, vault (sagittal depth), and edge alignment, so the lens can be tailored to your exact eye shape and needs.
Ideal Candidates for Scleral Lenses
1. Irregular Corneas & Ectasia
If the cornea is not round and smooth, light cannot focus correctly. This can make vision blurry or distorted with glasses or soft lenses. Sclerals are often a top choice for:
- Keratoconus and pellucid marginal degeneration
- Post-LASIK/RK ectasia
- Corneal scarring or thinning disorders
Scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface by covering the uneven surface of the eye. This often helps restore clear and stable vision, which can be hard to get with other options.
2. Moderate to Severe Dry Eye & Ocular Surface Disease
For many with evaporative dry eye, aqueous-deficient dry eye (including Sjögren’s), exposure keratopathy, or neuropathic corneal pain, the constant fluid reservoir reduces friction and protects delicate tissue. While sclerals aren’t a cure, patients frequently report longer-lasting comfort and less light sensitivity during daily tasks.
3. Post-Surgical & Post-Injury Rehabilitation
When the cornea has been reshaped by surgery or trauma, the optical surface can be unpredictable. Sclerals can help after:
- Corneal transplant (PK or DALK)
- Corneal cross-linking for keratoconus (once medically cleared)
- Infections or injuries that leave scars and irregularities
The lens optics and stability can deliver functional vision while avoiding pressure on sensitive corneal tissue.
4. High or Irregular Astigmatism
If you have tried toric soft lenses and still notice your vision “shifting,” a scleral lens might help. Its rigid surface can provide sharper and more consistent clarity. This option avoids the rotation problems that can happen with soft toric lenses.
5. Contact Lens Intolerance (Especially to Corneal GPs)
Some people like the look of rigid GP lenses. However, they can't stand the feeling of a small lens blinking on their sensitive eyes.
Sclerals rest the lens edges on less sensitive tissue. This often makes them much more comfortable. They also maintain the clear vision that rigid lenses provide.
Who Might Need a Different Plan?
Sclerals are versatile, but your doctor may recommend alternatives—or a staged approach—if you have:
- Active surface inflammation or infection (treat first, fit later)
- Very low endothelial cell counts (requires careful evaluation and monitoring)
- Severely limited manual dexterity without a caregiver or tools (many patients still succeed with training, plungers, and adaptive techniques)
During your evaluation at Cornea and Contact Lens Institute of Minnesota, we’ll review your ocular health, tear film, lids, and scleral shape to determine whether sclerals—or another custom option—best match your goals.
What to Expect at a Scleral Lens Evaluation
- History & Goals
We discuss your visual priorities (driving, computer work, sports), past lens experiences, dryness symptoms, and medical history. - Advanced Measurements
Corneal topography/tomography maps the front of the eye. When needed, we assess scleral shape to guide diameter and landing zone design. - Diagnostic Lens Trials
We apply test lenses to evaluate vault, alignment, and edge lift. You’ll experience the initial comfort and clarity while we check vision and ocular response. - Education & Training
You will learn how to apply and remove lenses using suction "plungers." You will also learn how to fill them with preservative-free saline. Daily hygiene and lens care will be covered too. Most patients master A&R within a visit or two. - Fine-Tuning & Follow-Up
Small changes in sagittal depth, toricity, or optics can yield big improvements. Expect a follow-up or two during the first month to perfect the fit and vision.
Comfort, Care, and Day-to-Day Tips
- Start clean: Wash and dry hands thoroughly before handling lenses.
- Use the right solutions: Fill with preservative-free saline only; clean with approved GP/scleral cleaners and disinfectants.
- Build a routine: Many patients wear sclerals 8–14 hours/day. If dryness develops late in the day, a quick refresh (removal, rinse, refill) can help.
- Blink and break: Follow the 20-20-20 rule for screen use and consider a humidifier to support the tear film.
- Protect your investment: Store lenses safely, replace plungers regularly, and keep a backup pair once your fit is finalized.
FAQs
Are scleral lenses hard to get used to?
Most patients find them comfortable from day one because the lens doesn’t touch the cornea. Insertion/removal technique improves quickly with practice.
How long do scleral lenses last?
With proper care, many patients replace lenses every 1–3 years, depending on material, deposits, and prescription changes.
Will insurance cover them?
When deemed medically necessary (e.g., keratoconus, corneal irregularity), some medical plans provide coverage for the lenses and fitting. Our team in Edina can review your benefits before you start.
Can I wear makeup or play sports?
Yes—just insert lenses before makeup and remove them before cleansing. Their stability makes them a popular choice for active patients.
When Scleral Lenses Are Not the First Step
If your main problem is a simple prescription change or mild dryness, try updated glasses or soft lenses first. You can also consider targeted dry eye treatments.
Sclerals work best when the surface is uneven or symptoms are moderate to severe. The fluid reservoir and rigid optics help a lot in these cases.
At Cornea and Contact Lens Institute of Minnesota, we will list all good options. This includes dry eye treatments, hybrid lenses, corneal GPs, and scleral designs. This way, you can make a smart choice.
Ready to See If You’re a Candidate?
Patients across Edina choose Cornea and Contact Lens Institute of Minnesota for advanced scleral lens fittings, careful follow-up, and ongoing care. Whether your goal is to finally tame keratoconus blur, get back to comfortable screen time, or enjoy steadier vision for driving, we’ll create a plan that fits your life.