Scleral Lens Are Different
Scleral contact lenses are a type of custom-fitted contact lens that effectively addresses various eye conditions, including keratoconus and other conditions that require specialized care. Dr. Shira Kresch, a renowned contact lens specialist at Michigan Contact Lens, has extensive experience in fitting scleral lenses and has helped numerous patients achieve improved vision and comfort. In this guide, we will explore what scleral contact lenses are, their benefits, the conditions they can address, and Dr. Kresch’s approach to fitting patients with these lenses.
What is a Scleral Contact Lens?
A scleral contact lens is a large, gas-permeable contact lens that vaults over the cornea and rests on the sclera, the white part of the eye. It is made of a highly breathable material that allows oxygen to reach the cornea, ensuring eye health and comfort.
Unlike traditional contact lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses provide a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea. This reservoir is filled with saline solution or artificial tears, creating a smooth and moist layer, which improves comfort and vision for individuals with various eye conditions.
Benefits of Scleral Contact Lenses
1. Improved Vision:
Scleral lenses provide excellent vision correction for individuals with irregular corneas caused by conditions like keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration, and post-corneal transplant. Since they vault over the cornea, these lenses create a smooth optical surface, minimizing aberrations and improving visual acuity.
2. Enhanced Comfort:
The tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea provides constant lubrication, reducing dryness and irritation often associated with traditional contact lenses. This feature makes scleral lenses an excellent option for patients with dry eyes or those who have had previous discomfort with standard lenses.
3. Protection and Healing:
Scleral lenses provide a protective barrier that shields the cornea from environmental factors, reducing the risk of injury and promoting healing for patients with corneal abrasions or persistent epithelial defects. The saline solution in the reservoir also acts as a healing agent, aiding in the recovery process.
4. Customization:
Scleral lenses are individually crafted to fit each patient’s unique eye shape, ensuring optimal comfort and vision correction. Dr. Kresch takes precise measurements and utilizes advanced technology to design custom lenses that address the specific needs of her patients.
Conditions that Benefit from Scleral Contact Lenses
1. Keratoconus:
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition characterized by the thinning and bulging of the cornea, resulting in distorted and blurred vision. Scleral lenses provide a smooth and stable corneal surface, improving visual acuity for individuals with keratoconus.
2. Pellucid Marginal Degeneration:
Similar to keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration causes thinning and irregularity of the cornea. Scleral lenses can help correct vision and reduce the astigmatism associated with this condition.
3. Post-Corneal Transplant:
After corneal transplant surgery, the cornea may remain unstable or irregular. Scleral lenses help provide stability and improve visual acuity by creating a consistent and smooth optical surface.
4. Severe Dry Eye:
Individuals with severe dry eye often struggle with discomfort and blurry vision when wearing traditional contact lenses. Scleral lenses offer a solution by providing a protective reservoir of tears, reducing dryness, and enhancing comfort.
Dr. Shira Kresch’s Approach to Scleral Lens Fitting
Dr. Shira Kresch, a highly experienced contact lens specialist at Michigan Contact Lens, takes a comprehensive and patient-centered approach to fitting scleral contact lenses.
1. Thorough Examination:
Dr. Kresch begins by conducting a comprehensive eye examination to determine the patient’s suitability for scleral lenses. This includes evaluating the corneal shape, tear film quality, and overall eye health.
2. Precise Measurements:
Using advanced technology like corneal topography and optical coherence tomography, Dr. Kresch takes precise measurements of the patient’s eyes to design a custom-fit scleral lens.
3. Lens Design and Fitting:
Based on the measurements, Dr. Kresch designs a custom scleral lens that addresses the patient’s specific needs. The lens is then fitted and evaluated for proper alignment, comfort, and visual acuity.
4. Patient Education:
Dr. Kresch takes the time to educate her patients about proper lens care, insertion, and removal techniques, and necessary follow-up visits. She ensures that patients have a thorough understanding of their scleral lenses and empowers them to take control of their eye health.
How Michigan Contact Lens Can Help With Your Scleral Contact Needs
Scleral contact lenses are a remarkable solution for individuals with various eye conditions, including keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration, and severe dry eye. Dr. Shira Kresch, a contact lens specialist at Michigan Contact Lens, offers her expertise and extensive experience to help patients achieve improved vision and enhanced comfort through these specialized lenses. By taking a personalized and meticulous approach to fitting scleral lenses, Dr. Kresch ensures that her patients receive the highest level of care and satisfaction.
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