The Impact of Scleral Lenses on Quality of Life for Dry Eye Patients

Dry eye syndrome can be a frustrating, even debilitating, condition for those who experience it. Constant irritation, blurry vision, and the sensation of dryness can take a toll on daily activities, from reading and driving to simply enjoying time outdoors. Fortunately, there is a solution that’s making a real difference: scleral lenses. Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses offer a unique design that benefits dry eye patients significantly. 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are specialized contact lenses designed to vault over the cornea (the eye’s front surface) and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). This structure creates a fluid-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea, which provides continuous hydration and protection for dry eyes. By maintaining a moisture-rich environment on the eye’s surface, scleral lenses can relieve dryness, irritation, and discomfort more effectively than standard soft lenses or eye drops. Here’s how these advanced lenses are transforming quality of life for those struggling with dry eyes.
 

Comfort and Relief from Dryness

The hydration layer created by scleral lenses often greatly improves the discomfort associated with ocular dryness. This is especially beneficial for individuals with severe dry eye, including those with conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), or complications from LASIK surgery. Patients often report feeling comfortable for extended periods, allowing them to enjoy activities that may have previously been limited due to dry eye discomfort.
 

Enhanced Visual Clarity

In addition to providing moisture, scleral lenses can improve vision by smoothing out irregularities on the corneal surface. For patients with keratoconus or corneal scarring, scleral lenses provide a stable and clear line of sight that isn’t always achievable with regular contacts or glasses. This improved clarity allows patients to focus on their work, drive with confidence, and appreciate the finer details of life. Forefront is one of the few offices in New England offering OVITZ higher order aberration control on scleral lenses, greatly improving the quality of vision for irregular corneas. 
 

Longer Wear Time

Unlike standard contacts, which can dry out over time, scleral lenses maintain their hydration throughout the day. For those with demanding schedules, long hours at a computer, or other activities that exacerbate dry eye symptoms, scleral lenses offer a solution that supports their lifestyle without interruption.
 

Freedom from Constant Eye Drops

Many dry eye patients rely heavily on artificial tears to soothe their eyes, which can be inconvenient and costly. Scleral lenses reduce or even eliminate the need for frequent eye drops in some patients  as the fluid reservoir within the lens keeps the eyes continuously lubricated. This shift can make daily life more convenient and reduce the need to remember and carry eye drops everywhere.
 

Are Scleral Lenses Right for Your Dry Eye?

Scleral lenses may be a game-changer for people with moderate to severe dry eye, especially those who haven’t found relief with other treatments. At Forefront Eye Care, we are one of the largest providers of scleral and other medical contact lenses in New England. We have the expertise to assess your unique needs and help determine if scleral lenses are the right choice for you. We’ll guide you through the fitting process, ensuring that your lenses are tailored for optimal comfort and clarity.
 

Schedule a consultation with Forefront Eye Care and take the first step toward lasting dry eye relief with scleral lenses. Visit our office in Boston, Massachusetts, or call (617) 322-0534 to book an appointment today.