How Scleral Lenses Improve Comfort for Dry Eye Patients

Dry eye disease can make everyday vision tasks feel uncomfortable and frustrating. From reading to working at a computer to simply spending time outdoors, persistent dryness and irritation can significantly affect your quality of life. For many people, traditional contact lenses only make these symptoms worse. Fortunately, scleral lenses offer a highly effective and comfortable alternative designed specifically for individuals with dry eye.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Unlike standard contact lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses are larger lenses that vault over the corneal surface and rest on the white of the eye (the sclera). This unique design creates a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the eye, helping keep the cornea hydrated throughout the day.

Scleral lenses are a type of specialty contact lenses in Chevy Chase, MD, often recommended for patients with:

• Moderate to severe dry eye

• Keratoconus or irregular corneas

• Post-surgical corneal changes

• Difficulty tolerating traditional contact lenses

How Scleral Lenses Help Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. Scleral lenses help relieve discomfort by:

• Maintaining Long-Lasting Hydration: The fluid reservoir acts like a protective cushion, keeping the cornea moist and reducing friction from blinking.

• Protecting the Ocular Surface: By vaulting over the cornea, scleral lenses prevent irritation and shield the surface from environmental triggers such as wind or dust.

• Providing Clearer, More Stable Vision: Dry eye often causes fluctuating vision. Scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface, improving clarity and visual stability.

• Increasing All-Day Comfort: Many patients who previously struggled with standard contacts find scleral lenses comfortable enough to wear for longer periods without burning or stinging.

Are Scleral Lenses Right for You?

If you’ve tried multiple dry eye treatments without success, scleral lenses may provide the comfort and clarity you need. A comprehensive contact lens evaluation allows us to assess your tear film, eye health, and visual needs to design a customized fit. Our optometrists in Chevy Chase have extensive experience fitting scleral lenses, ensuring you receive the best option for your eyes.

Experience Advanced Dry Eye Solutions at Eye Rx

Scleral lenses are a powerful solution for patients suffering from chronic dry eye symptoms. Their advanced design keeps your eyes hydrated, protected, and comfortable while delivering crisp, reliable vision.

Contact Eye Rx to schedule a contact lens exam and find out how scleral lenses can improve your dry eye symptoms. Visit our office in Chevy Chase, Maryland, or call (301) 450-8300 today.