Medically Necessary Scleral Contact Lenses
Medically Necessary Scleral Contact Lenses: Restoring Comfort and Clarity
For many people, traditional glasses or soft contact lenses work perfectly fine. But for others—especially those with complex corneal conditions—standard options simply don’t provide clear or comfortable vision. That’s where scleral contact lenses come in.
Scleral lenses aren’t just another type of contact lens—they’re often considered medically necessary because they can restore vision and comfort for patients who otherwise struggle to see clearly.
What Are Scleral Contact Lenses?
Scleral contact lenses are large-diameter, rigid gas-permeable lenses that vault over the cornea and rest gently on the white part of the eye (the sclera). Unlike standard lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses create a tear-filled cushion between the lens and the eye’s surface.
This design helps smooth out irregularities, protect sensitive corneas, and provide stable, clear vision—even for people who can’t tolerate regular contacts.
When Are Scleral Lenses Medically Necessary?
Scleral lenses are prescribed when other vision correction methods (like glasses or soft contacts) fail to provide adequate results. They’re commonly used to treat or manage:
- Keratoconus and corneal ectasia
- Post-surgical complications (such as after LASIK, corneal transplant, or RK)
- Severe dry eye disease (including Sjögren’s syndrome)
- Corneal scars or irregular astigmatism
- Ocular surface diseases
In these cases, scleral lenses are often deemed “medically necessary” because they restore functional vision, relieve discomfort, and protect the ocular surface.
Benefits of Scleral Lenses
- Exceptional vision clarity – Corrects irregular corneas for sharper focus
- Enhanced comfort – The fluid layer provides lasting hydration
- Corneal protection – Shields the eye from environmental irritants and dryness
- Custom fit – Each lens is designed to match your eye’s unique shape
Many patients describe scleral lenses as life-changing—allowing them to drive, read, or work comfortably again after years of blurry or painful vision.
The Fitting Process
Scleral lens fitting is highly specialized. During a fitting:
- Dr. Garcia will map the surface of your eye using advanced imaging.
- Custom lenses are designed for your exact shape and needs.
- You’ll receive detailed instructions for insertion, removal, and cleaning.
Follow-up visits are important to ensure the lenses fit perfectly and remain comfortable.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been told there’s nothing more that can be done to improve your vision—or if you suffer from severe dry eyes or corneal irregularities—medically necessary scleral contact lenses may be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
These lenses don’t just correct vision—they protect the eye, reduce pain, and restore quality of life.
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