Why To Consider Scleral Contact Lenses For Astigmatism And How To Select A Top Calgary Optometrist

Scleral contact lenses are a groundbreaking option for vision correction, especially for people with astigmatism or other irregularities in the cornea. These lenses are made of rigid gas-permeable material and are custom-made for each person, providing unmatched comfort and sharpness of vision.

In this article, we will delve into the details of scleral contact lenses, discussing their features, advantages, and the incredible difference they can make for individuals with complex eye conditions. If you are considering scleral contact lenses, contact our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall Calgary. Our experienced Calgary Eye Doctors can get you started on a contact lens fitting. Walk-in eye exams are available every day.

Why You Should Consider Scleral Contact Lenses

If you're someone who falls into any of the following categories, then scleral lenses may be just what you need:

• Keratoconus - a condition in which the cornea becomes thin and cone-shaped

• Irregular astigmatism - when the cornea is not evenly curved

• Dry eyes - a common problem where your eyes don't produce enough tears or your tears evaporate too quickly. This is often accompanied by symptoms like red eye, itchy eye, and eye pain

• Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) - an immune response that can occur after a bone marrow transplant

While it's important to consult with an experienced Calgary Optometrist before using scleral lenses, these specialized devices have proven to be life-changing for many individuals. The right eye care provider can help determine if you're a suitable candidate for scleral lenses and guide you through the fitting process. If you are hesitant, we recommend doing a search for the best Calgary Optometrist and calling the Calgary Eye Clinic near you to find out more details. Explore your options so that you feel comfortable with the eye care you are receiving for your scleral lenses.

The Power of Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral contact lenses offer several benefits over traditional soft contacts or glasses:

1. Improved visual clarity - By vaulting over the cornea and reaching the white part of your eye (sclera), these lenses create a smooth optical surface, compensating for any irregularities in the cornea. This results in sharper and clearer vision compared to other types of lenses. Even the best Optometrist will still use an eye exam chart to test this.

2. Enhanced comfort - Due to their larger size and unique design, scleral lenses are incredibly comfortable to wear. They don't touch the sensitive cornea and instead rest on the sclera, making them suitable for people with dry eyes or sensitive eyes.

3. Protection for the eyes - The liquid reservoir between the lens and the cornea acts as a cushion, providing relief to individuals with corneal damage or sensitivity.

Finding the Right Calgary Optometrist for Scleral Contact Lenses

It's crucial to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced eye care professional when considering scleral lenses. They can assess your specific needs and ensure a proper fit for maximum benefits.

Residents of the Calgary area looking for superior service in scleral contact lens fittings can turn to our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall. Our team of eye experts is highly trained in addressing complex visual requirements with personalized solutions.

By selecting an exceptional Calgary eye clinic and working closely with a trusted optometrist, you're paving the way towards better vision health through scleral contact lenses."

Understanding Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral contact lenses, also known as scleral lenses or GP lenses, are a specialized type of eyewear designed to address complex vision issues.

Unlike standard soft contact lenses, sclerals are made from a gas permeable material and have a larger diameter. This allows them to cover the entire corneal surface and rest on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. Scleral lenses are particularly beneficial for individuals with irregular corneas or conditions such as astigmatism and keratoconus.

Key Differences & Advantages

Here's how scleral lenses differ from soft contact lenses and their advantages:

1. Scleral vs Soft Contact Lenses

• Soft contacts conform to the shape of the cornea, which can be problematic for irregularly shaped corneas.

• On the other hand, scleral lenses maintain their shape and provide a smooth optical surface. This helps correct vision distortions caused by an irregular cornea.

2. Stability and Comfort

• Scleral lenses are larger in size, which makes them more stable on the eye and less likely to move out of position.

• They also offer similar comfort as soft lenses, making them suitable for extended wear.

Every pair of scleral lenses is custom-made using advanced computer technology. The fitting process involves detailed mapping of the cornea's surface to ensure a perfect fit that accommodates individual variations in eye shape.

Wear and Care

Here are some important points to know about wearing and caring for scleral lenses:

1. Duration

Most people can wear their scleral lenses for an entire day without any discomfort.

2. Maintenance

To keep your scleral lenses clean and safe to use, it's crucial to follow a strict cleaning routine using specific solutions recommended for gas permeable lenses. Daily cleaning and proper storage are essential to prevent infections and ensure the lenses last longer.

Care Tips

Here are some practical tips to remember while using scleral lenses:

1. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your lenses.

2. Use only the solutions prescribed by your optometrist for cleaning and rinsing your lenses.

3. Replace your lens case regularly to avoid bacteria buildup.

4. Schedule regular check-ups with your eye doctor to assess the condition of your lenses and overall eye health.

By understanding these aspects of scleral contact lenses, wearers can enjoy improved vision quality while minimizing potential complications associated with other types of contact lenses. Always touch base with your qualified Calgary Optometrist to ensure you are following best practice techniques.

Correcting Astigmatism with Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are effective in treating astigmatism, a common condition that causes blurry or distorted vision due to the eye's inability to focus light evenly on the retina. Irregularly shaped corneas often lead to astigmatism. Unlike soft contact lenses, scleral lenses have a custom design and rigid surface that allows them to maintain their shape. This rigidity creates a smooth and uniform refractive surface, addressing the light-bending issue caused by astigmatism and providing clear vision. This makes them superior to prescription glasses for high astigmatism.

Improving Vision for Keratoconus with Scleral Lenses

Scleral contact lenses also offer significant benefits for individuals with keratoconus, a condition where the cornea progressively thins and develops a cone-like shape. The unique design of scleral lenses, which arches over the cornea without touching it directly, helps compensate for the irregularities and improves vision for people with keratoconus. Even the top Optometrist will still use a classic eye exam chart to measure your vision.

Managing Dry Eye with Scleral Contacts

One notable advantage of scleral lenses is their ability to alleviate dry eye syndrome. These gas permeable contact lenses have a larger diameter and create a space filled with tears over the cornea. This reservoir acts as a constant source of moisture, addressing the challenges of dry eyes by improving oxygen flow and retaining moisture.

Importance of Regular Eye Exams and Lens Check-ups

While scleral contact lenses provide various benefits, it's crucial not to forget about the importance of regular eye exams and lens evaluations. Periodic visits to your qualified Calgary Optometrist ensure that your lenses still fit properly and meet your visual needs. These check-ups also help detect any potential eye problems or changes in ocular health early on.

In summary, scleral contact lenses have become a trusted solution for managing several vision issues, including astigmatism, keratoconus, and dry eye syndrome. With their ability to provide clear vision and improve comfort, they significantly enhance the quality of life for wearers. Call our Southcentre Mall Calgary Eye Clinic to book a walk-in eye exam with one of our experienced Calgary Eye Doctors. Remember that the eye exam cost in Calgary is covered every year for seniors and children under Alberta Health Care.

Scleral Contact Lenses: A Game-Changer for Keratoconus Patients

Keratoconus is an eye condition that causes the cornea to become thin and bulge into a cone-like shape over time. This results in blurry and distorted vision that regular contact lenses or glasses may not be able to correct effectively.

Fortunately, there's a new solution specifically designed for keratoconus patients called gas permeable scleral lenses. Unlike traditional contacts, these lenses cover the entire surface of the eye and rest on the white part (sclera), creating a smooth surface that compensates for the irregular shape of the cornea caused by keratoconus. If you suspect you are having this, we recommend you reach out the best Calgary Eye Clinic near you and book an eye exam with their expert Optometrist.

Why Are Scleral Lenses Ideal for Keratoconus?

Here are several reasons why scleral lenses are becoming the go-to option for people with keratoconus:

1. Better Vision: By replacing the misshapen cornea with a smooth lens surface, scleral lenses provide clearer and sharper vision.

2. Improved Comfort: These lenses are larger in diameter and sit more securely on the eye compared to regular contacts, which can lead to reduced discomfort.

3. Added Eye Protection: The space between the back of the lens and the front of the eye acts as a reservoir for tears, keeping the eye hydrated and protected throughout the day.

For individuals living with keratoconus, gas permeable scleral lenses have been life-changing. They not only enhance visual clarity but also greatly improve comfort, allowing for better everyday functioning.

Remember, if you're considering scleral lenses as an option, it's crucial to consult with an experienced optometrist who specializes in fitting them properly. They'll guide you through the process and ensure you get the best possible outcome for your unique eyesight needs. Call our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall to book a scleral lens fitting with one of our top Optometrists near you.

Finding the Right Calgary Optometrist for Scleral Contact Lens Fitting

Selecting a proficient Calgary Optometrist who specializes in scleral contact lens fittings is crucial to achieving the best visual outcomes. Several key factors should guide your choice:

1. Look for Expertise and Experience

Find an experienced Calgary Optometrist with a strong track record in fitting scleral lenses. They should have experience dealing with corneal irregularities and advanced ocular conditions. Their expertise will be evident in how well they prescribe and fit lenses.

2. Ensure Technological Advancement

Make sure the eye clinic uses advanced technology for eye examinations and lens fittings. This includes using topographical mapping to accurately measure your eye's surface.

3. Seek Patient Education

A good Optometrist will not only provide a fitting but also educate you on proper lens care, maintenance routines, and ocular health.

When considering the eye exam cost in Calgary, keep these points in mind:

• Check if your insurance plan covers part of the cost.

• Talk to the Optometrist or Calgary eye clinic staff about payment plans or financial assistance options if needed.

Collaboration is crucial for optimal patient care. Your chosen Optometrist should work closely with reputable scleral lens laboratories, ensuring that lenses are precisely tailored to your eyes' unique contours.

The prescribing process involves careful measurements and potentially multiple adjustments, underscoring the importance of this partnership between optometrist and lab technicians.

By following these guidelines, you can find an experienced Calgary Optometrist who meets your needs and helps you achieve comfortable, clear vision with custom scleral contact lenses. We recommend doing some research to find the best Optometrist in Calgary for your scleral lenses. There are many Calgary Eye Clinics with this option, thus it’s best to feel comfortable about the Eye Doctor you select.

Conclusion

Scleral contact lenses are an excellent solution for people with astigmatism and other vision problems. These lenses are designed specifically for each person's eye shape, providing unmatched clarity of vision. They are also comfortable to wear, making them a great choice for those with dry eyes or previous discomfort with regular contact lenses.

If you're considering scleral contact lenses as a treatment option, it's best to consult with an experienced Calgary Eye Doctor. A skilled Calgary Optometrist has the knowledge needed to customize scleral lenses for maximum effectiveness and eye health. Regular check-ups and adjustments by a trusted professional will ensure that both your lenses and your eyes stay in good condition.

For people in Calgary and nearby areas, our recommended Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall is here to help. Our team of expert Calgary Optometrists are trained in fitting scleral lenses and providing comprehensive eye care services.

Here are some steps you can take towards better vision:

1. Consider scleral contact lenses: These lenses can help manage astigmatism and improve your quality of life.

2. Consult an expert: Talk to a reputable Calgary Optometrist who can guide you through the process and make sure your scleral lenses are right for you.

3. Make an appointment: Visit our recommended Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall and discover the benefits of scleral contact lenses firsthand.

By taking advantage of advanced eye care technology and seeking help from professionals at our suggested eye clinic, you can start your journey towards better vision today. Scleral contact lenses could be the solution you've been looking for all along. Call to book a walk in eye exam for scleral contact lenses at our Eye Clinic in Southcentre with one of our experienced Calgary Optometrists.