How to Care for Your Scleral Lenses

Do you feel like a hostage to your glasses or contacts? Do you struggle with blurry vision from conditions like keratoconus or astigmatism? You can free yourself with scleral lenses. These specialized contact lenses offer visual freedom for those with irregular corneas. But they require special care. 
 

What Are Scleral Lenses? 

Scleral lenses vault over the entire eye, resting on the sclera or white part. This makes them ideal for conditions like keratoconus, dry eyes, and astigmatism. However, their large size requires unique cleaning and handling. With proper care, they provide excellent vision and comfort. Use this guide to get the most out of your lenses while keeping your eyes healthy.
 

Lens Insertion and Removal

Develop a proper routine for inserting and removing scleral lenses. Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling them, and avoid rubbing your eyes before lens removal.

To insert:

• Place the lens directly on the eye and blink gently to center it.
• Do not let the lens settle in your eye's fornix or underside.
• Look down and slide the lens onto your white part with a finger for removal.

Never use tweezers or other tools that can scratch eyes. Ask your provider about recommended insertion and removal techniques.
 

Daily Cleaning

Keep your lenses pristine between wears through daily cleaning. Use a sterile saline solution only; never tap water. Rub and rinse the lenses after removal using clean fingers.
 

Disinfect them overnight in fresh hydrogen peroxide solution. Hydrogen peroxide cleans effectively while neutralizing microbes. In the morning, rinse them well before inserting them. It is important to always wait the entire six hours before reinserting them. This is because the un-neutralized peroxide will likely sting your eyes.

Clean lens cases are essential, too. Swap your cases every three months to avoid bacterial buildup, and only use those approved for your disinfection system.
 

Weekly Deep Cleaning

Besides daily cleaning, your contact lenses need weekly deep cleaning. Use an enzymatic cleaner to break down protein buildup. Rub the cleaner gently into the lenses for 15 minutes before rinsing.
 

As for enzymatic cleaners and rotating between different cleaners, this is not typically ideal for scleral lenses. Sticking with the cleaning regimen recommended by your eye care professional is best.
 

Proper Wear and Replacement Schedule

Follow your provider's wearing schedule, removing lenses for cleaning and overnight storage. Scleral lenses should be comfortable once settled. Take them out if any pain or irritation occurs. The large surface area makes scleral lenses more prone to deposits and damage. Replace them regularly as recommended, and do not wear them longer than prescribed.
 

Pre-Wear Eye Hygiene

Good eye hygiene before lens insertion prevents irritation. Use preservative-free eye drops to hydrate eyes if needed. Avoid cosmetics before lens wear. Only apply eye makeup after removing the lenses for the day. Cosmetics and oils can clog lenses, causing discomfort.

Watch for Potential Complications

Scleral lens wear comes with some unique risks to monitor. Redness, discharge, excessive tearing, or light sensitivity may indicate infection or irritation. Headaches or blurry vision are also of concern. Immediately report any worrisome symptoms to your eye doctor.
 

Bottom Line

Caring for scleral lenses takes effort but pays off through clear, comfortable vision. You can use them successfully for years with diligent daily cleaning and hygiene. Handled correctly, they open up new possibilities for those requiring visual correction.
 

For more on scleral lenses, visit Advanced Eyecare Consultants at our Lake Zurich or Libertyville, Illinois offices. Call 847-438-7700 or 847-994-4500 to schedule an appointment today.