Scleral Contact Lenses
Scleral lenses are a type of specialty contact lens that is larger than traditional soft contact lenses. They are designed to rest on the white part of the eye, the sclera, rather than directly on the cornea, creating a fluid-filled reservoir between the lens and the eye. This unique design provides exceptional comfort and is particularly beneficial for individuals with dry eyes, irregular corneas, or conditions like keratoconus, where the cornea becomes cone-shaped.
Scleral lenses help correct vision by providing a smooth optical surface, improving clarity and visual acuity. Because of their size and design, they offer a high level of stability and are less likely to shift or dislodge, making them ideal for those with special vision correction needs.
Since contact lenses sit directly on the eyes' surface, assessing their fit, comfort, and impact on eye health is essential. Only a comprehensive contact lens exam can help evaluate corneal health, tear film quality, and proper lens fit.
Providing our patients with a comfortable and precise contact lens fit is important to us, which is why we take the time to evaluate every individual’s unique eye shape, size, and needs to recommend the most ideal contact lens options.
Bifocal/Multifocal Contacts
Bifocal and multifocal contact lenses are designed to address presbyopia, a condition that typically occurs as people age, causing difficulty focusing on nearby objects. These lenses feature multiple prescriptions in one lens, allowing wearers to see clearly at different distances—near, intermediate, and far. Bifocal contacts usually have two distinct optical powers: one for distance and one for near vision, while multifocal lenses provide a gradual transition between multiple powers for a more natural viewing experience.
These lenses eliminate the need for reading glasses and offer convenience for individuals who want clear vision at all distances without the hassle of switching between glasses. The design and fitting of these lenses vary, with some models using concentric rings and others with a segment approach, depending on the needs of the wearer.
Ortho-K Lenses
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is a non-surgical vision correction treatment that uses specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses to reshape the cornea overnight. By wearing these lenses while sleeping, patients can achieve clearer vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or regular contact lenses. Ortho-K is primarily used to correct myopia (nearsightedness), but it can also address astigmatism and hyperopia (farsightedness). The effect of Ortho-K is temporary, meaning the lenses need to be worn regularly to maintain the vision correction.
This treatment is a popular option for children and teens whose prescriptions are still changing, as it can slow the progression of myopia. It offers a convenient, non-invasive alternative to traditional refractive surgery.