Scleral Lenses vs. Regular Contacts: Which Is Better for Severe Dry Eyes?

Living with severe dry eyes can make ordinary contact lenses uncomfortable or difficult to wear. Burning, grittiness, redness, and fluctuating vision often become more noticeable as the day continues. For patients in La Mesa who still want the convenience of contact lenses, scleral lenses may provide a more comfortable and stable option than regular soft contacts.

How Regular Contacts Affect Dry Eyes

Regular contacts usually refer to standard soft contact lenses that gently drape over the cornea and follow the curves of the eye. They depend on a healthy, stable tear film to remain comfortable and provide clear vision. When the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, soft lenses may dry out or feel irritating.

Some people with mild dry eye symptoms can continue wearing soft contacts with the right lens material, replacement schedule, and eye care routine. This may include the use of over-the-counter contact lens rewetting drops to improve hydration.  However, patients with severe dry eyes may struggle with reduced wear time, blurry vision, or ongoing discomfort.

Why Scleral Lenses Work Differently

Scleral lenses are larger rigid gas permeable lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. Before insertion, the lens is filled with preservative-free inhalation saline. This creates a fluid reservoir between the lens and the cornea, helping keep the ocular surface hydrated during wear.  This tear reservoir bathes the eye all day in a moisture chamber.

Because the lens does not rest directly on the sensitive corneal surface, a properly fitted scleral lens may also reduce friction from blinking. At Vision Solutions Optometry, we provide specialty contact lens fittings in La Mesa for patients who are difficult to fit with traditional contacts.

Potential Benefits of Scleral Lenses for Severe Dry Eye

For the right patient, scleral lenses may offer several advantages:
 

•          A consistent layer of moisture over the cornea
 

•          Greater comfort for sensitive or irregular corneal surfaces
 

•          More stable vision throughout the day
 

•          Protection from airflow, dust, and other environmental irritants

These features make scleral contacts an option for some patients with advanced dry eye disease, contact lens intolerance, Sjögren syndrome, or corneal irregularities.

The Importance of a Custom Scleral Lens Fitting

Precise measurements are needed to determine the proper diameter, vault, landing area, and prescription. Follow-up visits allow Dr. Peters to evaluate comfort, vision, lens clearance, and overall eye health.

Patients also receive guidance on inserting, removing, filling, and cleaning their lenses correctly. With a customized fit and proper care, scleral lenses can make contact lens wear more manageable for many people with severe dry eyes.

Schedule a consultation with Vision Solutions Optometry to find out whether scleral lenses are the right solution for your dry eye symptoms. Contact our office in La Mesa, CA, by calling (619) 461-4913 to book an appointment.