Scleral Lenses vs. Standard Contacts: The Best Custom Option for Dry Eye and Astigmatism

While standard soft contacts work well for many people, patients with persistent dry eye, significant astigmatism, or more complex corneal shapes may need a more customized solution. At Rolling Hills Eyecare, we offer specialty contact lenses and scleral lenses for patients in Pullman and Colfax who need greater comfort, stability, or visual clarity.

How Standard Contact Lenses Work

Standard soft contact lenses sit directly on the cornea and are designed to correct common refractive errors such as nearsightedness and farsightedness. Toric soft lenses are specifically designed for astigmatism and can provide clear vision when the corneal shape and prescription fall within the lens parameters.

For many patients, these lenses are convenient and comfortable. However, people with chronic dry eye, higher levels of astigmatism, or irregular corneas may experience fluctuating vision, dryness, or difficulty keeping a standard lens properly positioned.

What Makes Scleral Lenses Different?

Scleral lenses are larger than traditional contacts. Instead of resting directly on the cornea, they vault over it and rest on the sclera, which is the white part of the eye. The space between the lens and cornea is filled with preservative-free saline solution, creating a fluid reservoir over the eye's surface.

This design can provide several advantages for patients who have struggled with conventional contacts:

•          Consistent hydration for patients affected by dry eye

•          Greater stability for certain types of astigmatism

•          Clearer vision for irregular corneal surfaces

•          Reduced contact between the lens and sensitive corneal tissue

•          A customized fit based on the individual shape of the eye

Scleral Lenses for Dry Eye

Dry eye can make standard contact lens wear frustrating. When the tear film is unstable, lenses may begin to feel dry, irritating, or uncomfortable as the day continues.

Because scleral lenses maintain a layer of fluid over the cornea, they can help protect and hydrate the ocular surface during wear. For patients with ongoing dry eye symptoms, we can evaluate the underlying cause of discomfort and determine whether scleral lenses should be part of their personalized eye care plan.

Scleral Lenses for Astigmatism

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular curvature, causing light to focus unevenly. Standard toric contacts work well for many cases, but more significant or irregular astigmatism can require a different approach.

The larger diameter and stable positioning of scleral lenses can create a smoother optical surface and reduce the visual distortion associated with complex corneal shapes. This makes them an option worth exploring when traditional contacts do not provide consistent vision.

Choosing the Right Contact Lens for Your Eyes

The best lens depends on your prescription, corneal shape, tear film, eye health, and daily needs. Our contact lens exams and specialty contact lens fittings allow us to evaluate these factors and recommend an option designed specifically for your eyes.

If dry eye or astigmatism has made standard contacts difficult to wear, schedule a scleral lens consultation with Rolling Hills Eyecare today. Contact our office in Pullman or Colfax, Washington, by calling (509) 334-3610 or (509) 397-3961 to book an appointment.