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Scleral Contact Lenses in San Jose, CA

Scleral lenses are rigid contact lenses for hard-to-fit patients and are ideal for people with a vision prescription that exceeds the standard parameters of soft contacts.

What are scleral lenses?

These hard-to-fit contacts are rigid gas permeable lenses that have an extra-large diameter. They vault completely over your cornea, coming to rest on the whites of your eye (called the sclera). Scleral lenses thereby cover the irregular corneal surface with a rounded optical surface, helping you to achieve clear vision – even if you have keratoconus.

As the shape of scleral lenses creates a bridge over the eye, it leaves a gap that fills with tears. This pocket of tears enhances comfortable vision for people with dry eyes, which makes scleral lenses a great option for people with severe dry eye syndrome.

Optometrist, happy girl wearing contact lenses in San Jose, CA

How safe are scleral lenses?

Although this may be the first time you have heard of scleral lenses, they aren’t a new invention. In fact, they are the oldest type of contact lenses, invented in the early 16th century by Leonardo da Vinci.

However, the first prototypes that were manufactured in Europe were not very permeable to oxygen. As a result, they caused many negative side effects, such as corneal swelling.

Nowadays, modern scleral lenses are designed and crafted with precise technology, new materials, and computer-driven lathes. This leads to a higher level of safety and comfort.

Contemporary sclerals have a high oxygen permeability, which reduces the risk of eye complications.

Patients with keratoconus can have crystal-clear vision along with protection of the sensitive corneal surface.

Eye doctor, woman at an eye exam in San Jose, CA

Scleral Lens Fitting

The eye doctor will map your cornea using advanced corneal topography equipment. This generates a detailed diagram of your cornea, which is used to make customized scleral contact lenses.

We equip our office with the newest technologies in order to ensure an efficient eye care experience and lenses that fit you perfectly.

Is it difficult to insert and care for scleral lenses?

At the very beginning, it can be tricky to insert scleral contacts. Yet, our optometrists provide complete instruction and training.

After a short practice period of inserting and removing your lenses, you’ll have no trouble at all! Scleral lenses are very durable and easy to handle.

You must care for scleral lenses in the same way as standard contacts. Right after you remove them, clean and store them with the recommended disinfectant.

When Are Scleral Lenses An Effective Option?

Typically, our optometrists near Milpitas, CA prescribe scleral lenses typically for patients with keratoconus, corneal dystrophies and degenerations, and in the case of corneal scarring.

In addition, they are helpful for people with extreme dry eye syndrome, chronic inflammatory conditions, Sjogren's disease, and other specific conditions. Many of our patients who try scleral lenses report that they are pleased to finally enjoy sharp and comfortable vision!

Scleral lenses can also be the ideal treatment for people with a vision prescription that exceeds the standard parameters of soft contacts.

Contact our Milpitas eye doctors to schedule a consultation at our optometry practice. Beryessa Optometry offers expert fittings for scleral lenses and a premium selection of these specialty contacts for hard-to-fit vision conditions.

More about scleral lenses recommnded by our eye care experts near Milpitas, CA

Eye doctor, man putting on a contact lens in San Jose, CA

There are two basic methods of removing scleral contact lenses: with your fingers, or with the aid of a plunger.

Optometrist, woman brow eyes in San Jose, CA

Eye doctors will evaluate your cornea using first-rate skill and the latest optometric technology.

Eye doctor, senior man wearing scleral contact lenses in San Jose, CA

The lens has many advantages which can make contact lens wear an option for those who have previously been told otherwise.

Our Open Hours

  • 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM
  • 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  • 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  • Closed

Friday and Saturday: Early appts available on request

Open Hours:

  • 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM
  • 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  • 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  • Closed

Friday and Saturday: Early appts available on request

Request an Appointment - Online Form

We are excited to welcome you back into our office!

We are currently open by appointment only for all services to reduce the number of people in the office. Please contact our office to get our soonest availability for an exam.

Due to COVID-19, we are taking precautions to ensure your safety and well being, as it remains our highest priority. Our staff is diligently adhering to CDC guidelines and other healthcare recommendations and required protocols.

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you soon!

Hung D. Mac, OD & Staff