Keratoconus can turn simple tasks into daily challenges, making it difficult to see clearly and enjoy life to the fullest. As the cornea changes shape, standard glasses and contact lenses often can’t provide the clarity or comfort you need. At West Texas Eyecare in Fort Stockton, Texas, we specialize in solutions that go beyond the basics. Scleral lenses are a remarkable option for those with keratoconus, offering renewed vision and a renewed sense of confidence.

Why Tradition Contacts Fall Short for Keratoconus

Regular contact lenses, including standard soft and rigid gas-permeable lenses, often fail to meet the needs of individuals with keratoconus because they are designed to fit the natural, regular curve of a healthy cornea. Keratoconus causes the cornea to become thin and develop an irregular, cone-like shape, which prevents these traditional lenses from fitting properly or staying centered on the eye. As a result, wearers may experience discomfort, lens instability, and persistent blurry or distorted vision.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter, gas-permeable contact lenses that vault over the entire cornea and rest gently on the white part of the eye (the sclera). Unlike traditional soft or rigid gas-permeable lenses, scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface over the irregular cornea caused by keratoconus. This unique design not only improves comfort but also provides more stable and sharper vision.

How Do Scleral Lenses Help Keratoconus?

Keratoconus causes the cornea to become cone-shaped, which distorts the way light enters your eye. Scleral lenses act as a new, regular surface for light to pass through, bypassing the misshapen cornea. This helps correct blurry vision, ghosting, and halos that standard glasses or contact lenses may not address.

In addition, the space between the scleral lens and the cornea is filled with a fluid reservoir, which keeps the eye hydrated and can help reduce discomfort for people with dry or sensitive eyes - a common concern for those with keratoconus.

Benefits of Scleral Lenses

• Superior Vision Correction: Scleral lenses often provide sharper, more consistent vision than glasses or soft lenses.

• Increased Comfort: Because they rest on the sclera, these lenses rarely move on the eye and are less likely to cause irritation.

• Suitable for Complex Cases: Scleral lenses are an excellent option for people with advanced or irregular keratoconus who may not tolerate other contact lenses.

• Protection and Hydration: The fluid-filled chamber offers soothing relief for those with corneal sensitivity or dryness.

What to Expect During the Fitting Process

We use advanced technology to map the unique shape of your eyes and customize scleral lenses just for you. Our doctors take the time to ensure a precise, comfortable fit and provide guidance on lens care and handling. We are dedicated to helping our patients achieve the best possible outcomes with personalized attention every step of the way.

Take the Next Step at West Texas Eyecare

Living with keratoconus no longer means settling for poor vision or discomfort. Scleral lenses offer a safe, effective, and life-changing solution for restoring both your sight and your confidence. With the right care and expertise, you can look forward to clear, comfortable vision every day.

If your have keratoconus, schedule an eye exam with West Texas Eyecare and discover how sclera lenses can transform your vision and comfort. Contact our office in Fort Stockton, Texas, by calling (432) 336-3662 to book an appointment today.