Scleral Lenses vs. Traditional Contact: Understanding the Differences and Advantages

When it comes to correcting your vision, you have several options. One of the most popular methods is using contact lenses. Contact lenses have revolutionized the lives of many individuals by providing a clear, unobstructed view of the world. Understanding the different options available can make this decision process less daunting.
 

Understanding Traditional Contact Lenses

Traditional contact lenses are the most common type of contacts used by people around the globe. They are small, flexible, and sit directly on the cornea – the clear, domed front surface of your eye. Traditional contacts are designed to correct refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
 

Choosing traditional contact lenses can offer you many benefits. They give you a wider field of vision than glasses, they don't fog up or get wet in the rain, and they don't interfere with your physical activities.
 

Traditional contact lenses require a proper fit to ensure comfort and optimal vision. They also need regular care and maintenance to prevent eye infections or other complications.
 

Types of Traditional Contact Lenses and Who They are Good For

There are several types of traditional contact lenses available, each designed to cater to different vision needs and lifestyles. Soft lenses are the most popular type, known for their comfort and flexibility. They are great for individuals who lead an active lifestyle as they stay in place better than rigid lenses.
 

Rigid gas permeable lenses, on the other hand, offer sharper vision and are more durable. They can be an excellent choice for people with astigmatism or those who require multifocal lenses. Then there are daily disposable lenses, which are perfect for those who prefer the convenience of not having to clean and store their lenses every day.
 

Extended wear lenses allow you to wear them overnight for a certain period, reducing the hassle of removing and cleaning them daily. These types of traditional contact lenses are good for almost everyone, except those with certain eye conditions or those who have trouble handling small objects.
 

Advantages of Traditional Contact Lenses

The benefits of traditional contact lenses are numerous. They provide an unobstructed field of vision, making them ideal for sports and other physical activities. Unlike glasses, they don't get in the way, fog up, or get splattered by rain. Traditional contacts also allow you to change your eye color, giving you a unique way to express your personal style.
 

They can correct most refractive errors and even come in bifocal or multifocal designs for those with presbyopia. Comfort is another significant advantage, especially with soft contact lenses that are often described as feeling like there's nothing in your eye.
 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

While traditional contact lenses have their advantages, they may not be the best solution for everyone. For those with irregular corneas or severe dry eyes, scleral lenses could be a game-changer. Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas permeable contact lenses that vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the white part of the eye, the sclera.
 

Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses create a tear-filled vault over the cornea. This design can make them more comfortable than traditional contacts, especially for individuals with sensitive or irregularly shaped corneas.
 

Types of Scleral Lenses and Common Eye Conditions They Address

Scleral lenses come in several types, including mini-scleral, full scleral, and hybrid lenses. The type that's best for you will depend on your specific eye condition and comfort needs.
 

Mini-scleral lenses are smaller and rest on the edge of the cornea. They are often used for conditions like keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges out into a cone shape. Full scleral lenses are larger and can help with more severe corneal irregularities or dry eye syndrome. Hybrid lenses combine the features of soft and scleral lenses, offering the comfort of soft lenses with the vision benefits of scleral lenses.
 

Benefits of Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses offer several benefits. They provide excellent vision correction, especially for individuals with corneal irregularities that cannot be adequately corrected with glasses or traditional contact lenses. The lens design creates a smooth optical surface, correcting vision distortions caused by irregular corneas.
 

Comfort is another significant advantage of scleral lenses. Because they vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, they do not touch the sensitive corneal tissue. This makes them a good option for those who find traditional contacts uncomfortable or who have conditions like dry eyes.
 

Additionally, scleral lenses are less likely to dislodge from the eye due to their size and design. This makes them an ideal choice for those involved in physical activities.
 

Determining the Right Type of Contacts for You

While this guide provides a general overview of traditional contact lenses and scleral lenses, the best way to determine which is right for you is to consult with your optometrist. They can assess your visual needs, evaluate your eye health, and discuss your lifestyle requirements to recommend the best type of contact lens for you.
 

Contact lenses are medical devices that require a prescription. Regular check-ups with your optometrist are also crucial to ensure your lenses are fitting correctly and not causing any harm to your eyes.
 

Conclusion

Both traditional contact lenses and scleral lenses have their unique advantages. Ultimately, the choice between traditional contact lenses and scleral lenses will depend on your specific visual needs, lifestyle, and comfort preferences. By understanding the differences and advantages of each, you can make an informed decision about what's best for your eyes.
 

For more information on traditional contact lenses and scleral lenses or to determine which is right for your visual needs, consult with our optometrist to discuss your options and find the perfect solution. Visit Nuwave Vision at our office in Westlake, Ohio. Call (440) 881-0002 to schedule an appointment today.