Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea becomes irregularly shaped, leading to distorted vision. It can be challenging to manage with standard glasses or contact lenses, but scleral lenses offer an effective solution.
At Vision Professionals, we are skilled in fitting scleral lenses to provide benefits for those with keratoconus in Columbus, New Albany, Sunbury, Delaware and Jackson Township, OH.
What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a degenerative eye condition that affects the cornea, causing it to thin and bulge into a cone shape. This irregular shape changes how light focuses, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.
This disorder typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood and can progress over time. Family history, excessive eye rubbing, and certain medical conditions are known to increase the risk of developing keratoconus. Common symptoms of keratoconus include:
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
- Difficulty with night vision
What are Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas-permeable contact lenses. They allow oxygen to reach the eye and vault over the entire corneal surface, only coming into contact with the whites of the eye.
Unlike traditional contact lenses that sit directly on the eye's lens, scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface and are filled with saline fluid. This provides better vision correction for irregular corneas like those found in keratoconus.
Benefits of Scleral Lenses for Keratoconus
- Superior Comfort: For people with keratoconus, scleral lenses are more comfortable because they don't touch the sensitive corneal surface. They also retain moisture beneath them, making them an excellent option for those with dry eyes.
- Improved Vision: Scleral lenses create a new, smooth optical surface, correcting the blurry vision caused by keratoconus. This equals clearer and more stable vision than glasses or standard contact lenses.
- Protection of the Cornea: Scleral lenses protect the cornea from further irritation or damage, which is beneficial for hard-to-fit eyes.
- Extended Wear Time: They can be comfortably worn for longer periods, making them a convenient option for daily use.
How Our Contact Lens Specialists Fit Your Scleral Lenses
The fitting process for keratoconus contact lenses is more complex than that of traditional contact lenses. Here’s an overview of what you can expect during a scleral lens fitting:
- Comprehensive Eye Examination: One of our eye doctors will conduct a thorough eye exam to assess your eyes and the severity of your keratoconus. This is done to determine if scleral lenses are the right option for you.
- Corneal Mapping: Advanced imaging technology, such as corneal topography, is used to create a detailed map of your cornea’s shape. This enables us to tailor scleral lenses to the exact contours of your eyes.
- Trial Lenses: Based on the corneal mapping, a trial pair is selected and placed on your eyes. You’ll be asked to wear these lenses for a short period so we can evaluate their comfort.
- Final Customization: Adjustments may be made to the lens design based on the trial fitting. Once the final lenses are crafted, you’ll be taught about scleral lens insertion and storage.
- Follow-Up Visits: Scleral lenses often require follow-up visits to ensure that the lenses are fitting correctly and that your vision is optimized.
We Offer Scleral Lens Fittings Across Ohio
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with keratoconus, consulting with a keratoconus specialist like Vision Professionals is essential. Take the step towards better vision by scheduling a consultation at one of our practices in Columbus, New Albany, Sunbury, Delaware, or Jackson Township.