Specialty Contact Lenses Explained: How Scleral Lenses and Ortho-K Transform Vision for Hard-to-Fit Eyes

People with dry eyes, irregular corneas, or simply the wrong fit can find contact lenses uncomfortable. If you also find them uncomfortable, do not worry, special lenses can offer a solution. Two popular options are scleral lenses and Ortho-K. These lenses work differently from standard contacts and can solve tricky vision problems.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are larger, rigid contact lenses that sit over the entire cornea and rest on the white part of your eye. They create a cushion of fluid between the lens and your eye. This fluid helps keep your eyes moist and comfortable throughout the day.

What is great about scleral lenses is that they are incredibly comfortable for many people, especially those who suffer from dry eyes. Since they cover more of your eye, they provide clear, sharp vision. They are also a great option for people with irregular corneas or keratoconus.

For those with severe dry eye, scleral lenses are a game-changer. The fluid-filled space between the lens and the eye offers relief, making them feel more comfortable than regular contact lenses.

What Is Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)?

Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, uses special rigid contact lenses that you wear overnight. While you sleep, these lenses gently reshape your cornea. The result? You wake up with clear vision, eliminating the need to wear glasses or contacts during the day.

Ortho-K is perfect for people with nearsightedness (myopia) or astigmatism. It is a non-surgical option for clearer vision, meaning no lasers, no cutting, and no downtime. Just pop the lenses in before bed, and enjoy clear vision when you wake up.

The lenses are custom-made for each person, so you will need regular checkups to make sure they fit correctly and that your eyes stay healthy.

Who Can Benefit From These Lenses?

Scleral lenses and Ortho-K are both designed for specific needs.

• Scleral Lenses: These are ideal for individuals with complex eye conditions, such as keratoconus, severe dry eye, or corneal irregularities. They are also perfect for anyone who has found regular contacts uncomfortable or difficult to wear. If you have a unique eye shape or suffer from chronic dry eyes, ask your eye doctor about scleral lenses.
• Ortho-K: These lenses are best for people with mild to moderate nearsightedness. Active adults who prefer not to wear glasses during the day love them. They are also ideal for children who need help managing their myopia. If you are struggling with myopia, Ortho-K could be a great option.

To determine which lens is right for you, it is best to talk to your eye care professional.

Taking Care of Your Specialty Lenses

Here are a few tips for proper lens care:

• Always clean your lenses with the solution your doctor recommends.
• When you are not wearing your lenses, make sure to store them in a clean case with fresh solution. This helps prevent contamination and keeps your lenses safe.
• Do not skip your regular eye checkups. Your eye doctor will check how your lenses are fitting and monitor your eye health to ensure you are getting the best results.

Finding the Right Fit

If you are looking for relief from dry eye or need a solution for nearsightedness, these lenses can help.

Choosing the right lens is a personal decision. With the right lenses, you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision every day.

For more on specialty contact lenses, visit eyeDOC OPTOMETRY at our Riverside, California office. Call (951) 621-8300 to book an appointment today.