Scleral lenses are a type of specialized contact lenses often prescribed for patients with keratoconus or hard-to-fit eyes. These rigid gas-permeable lenses have a wide diameter that covers the entire corneal surface, providing comfort and clear vision for individuals with irregular corneas.
At Complete Eye Care, our optometrists provide expert training and guidance to help you insert, remove, and care for your scleral lenses properly.
Here are some important tips and instructions to ensure a seamless experience with your scleral lenses.
How To Insert Scleral Lenses
1. Wash your hands
Begin by thoroughly washing your hands with mild soap and drying them with a lint-free towel. This step helps prevent any small fibers from sticking to your lenses.
2. Check your eyes for secretions
Before inserting the lenses, inspect your eyes for any redness or secretions. If you experience any irritation or changes in vision while wearing scleral lenses, contact our office to schedule an eye exam.
3. Follow your eye doctor’s directions
Our scleral lens team at Complete Eye Care will provide specific instructions on the best insertion methods during your visit to our clinic. Here is a general guideline:
- Place a mirror flat on the table in front of you.
- Carefully examine the lens for any debris or chips. If you hold your scleral lens against the light, you’ll be able to spot any cloudy deposits.
- Fill the lens bowl with Oasis Tears Plus, a saline solution we recommend suitable for scleral lenses at Complete Eye Care.
- You can insert the lenses using your fingers or a special inserter tool. If using your fingers, the tripod method (using two or three fingers) provides stability and helps keep the lens flat as you place it on your eye.
- Look downwards towards the mirror, use one hand to hold your eyelids open, and gently place the lens in your eye using the other hand. Once you feel the saline against your eyeball, press gently and let go. The lens will attach to your eye. Repeat the process for the second lens.
- If the lenses feel uncomfortable, there may be an air bubble trapped beneath the lens surface. In such cases, remove the lens and reinsert it following the guidelines above.
How To Remove Scleral Lenses
After washing your hands, look straight ahead. There are two methods for removing scleral lenses.
A. Using your fingers
Gently press on your eye and pull the lens up and out.
B. Using a plunger
Attach the plunger to the lower third of the lens, press gently on your eye, and then pull up and out. With practice, lens removal becomes natural and simple.
Proper Care of Scleral Lenses
- As soon as you remove your lenses, place them in a special lens basket with the correct side marked (right or left).
- Fill the vial with the prescribed hydrogen peroxide solution called Refine One Step. Ensure you don’t change solution types or brands, unless recommended by your eye doctor.
- Screw the lid with the baskets onto the vial, turn it upside down once, and set it upright on the counter overnight. The lenses should soak in the hydrogen peroxide solution for at least six hours before reuse.
- In the morning, take the right lens, place 3 or 4 drops of Oasis Tears Plus in the bowl of the lens, and insert it into your right eye. Repeat for the left eye.
- Rinse the vial with water and allow the basket and vial to air dry. Always use Oasis Tears Plus in the lens bowl before insertion. It is crucial to stick to the prescribed solutions and avoid switching to prevent potential problems.
- Replace your lens case when you replace the bottle of hydrogen peroxide (Refine One Step). Allow the case to air dry with the top off throughout the day.
FAQ on Scleral Lenses Wear and Care
How often should I clean my scleral lenses?
It is recommended to clean your scleral lenses daily. Follow the cleaning instructions provided by your optometrist and use the prescribed cleaning solutions.
How long do you wear scleral lenses for the first time?
The wearing time for scleral lenses varies from person to person. Initially, your optometrist may advise wearing them for a few hours and gradually increasing the duration. Follow your optometrist’s instructions regarding wearing time.
Can you cry or shower with scleral lenses on?
It is generally safe to cry or shower while wearing scleral lenses. However, if water enters your eyes, it may cause discomfort or temporarily blur your vision. It is advisable to keep your eyes closed or use protective eyewear in such situations to avoid potential problems.
What happens if you fall asleep with scleral lenses?
Falling asleep with scleral lenses can lead to dryness, discomfort, and potential corneal complications. It is important to remove your lenses before sleeping unless specifically instructed by your optometrist for therapeutic purposes.
If you have any further questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Get Scleral Lenses And Personalized Eye Care in Belmont, NC
At Complete Eye Care, we provide personalized eye care and offer scleral lenses that can address your specific eye condition. Whether you have keratoconus or highly sensitive eyes, our team is here to help.
Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward clearer vision with scleral lenses.