Sclera vs Scleral Lenses
August 13, 2024
Sclera Versus Scleral Lenses
What is the difference between sclera contacts and scleral contacts? They sound similar, and they both refer to contact lenses that interact with the white tough coat of the eyeball, the sclera. The sclera is covered by a thin mucous membrane, called the conjunctiva. Sclera and scleral contact lenses both rest over the conjunctiva and the sclera.
Sclera Contact Lenses are Theatrical
Sclera contact lenses are decorative, for costumes, Halloween, and shock value.
Sclera contact lenses are large soft lenses that are hand-painted or have a cosmetic print. They are used for costumes, like cosplay at San Diego’s Comic-Con, for Halloween, and in Hollywood’s science-fiction and horror movies to look like vampires, monsters, or aliens. Some even wear sclera contact lenses for shock value, to complement their look with body modifications, tattoos, and piercings.
Sclera decorative contact lenses are commonly sold by online retailers that ignore protections designed to protect the public. This is why the American Optometric Association has issued consumer warnings regarding decorative contact lenses. ReVision Optometry does not prescribe decorative sclera lenses. If you are interested in them, your best bet for safe contact lens wear is to reach out to your general optometrist or ophthalmologist.
If you wear sclera contact lenses, a relatively little-known guidance, even among eye care professionals, is that you should not wear them when undergoing a head MRI. This is because the metallic oxides in the lens coloration can adversely affect MRI quality.
Scleral Contact Lenses are Therapeutic and Functional
Scleral contact lenses are therapeutic, often prescribed for rehabilitating vision in eye diseases like keratoconus.
Scleral contact lenses are custom medical devices, typically prescribed to rehabilitate vision for specific eye diseases including keratoconus in instances where traditional methods of vision correction fail. Scleral contact lenses are diamond-lathed using sophisticated computer-controlled instruments according to the doctor’s specifications. ReVision Optometry concentrates on scleral lens prescribing and accepts patient referrals from other eye care professionals for this specialized treatment.
Scleral contact lens prescribing is as much an art as a science and involves high level clinical decision-making. By comparison, the level of clinical experience and decision-making for soft disposable contact lens prescribing is much lower. This is why successful scleral lens wear depends heavily on how the lenses are prescribed by the practitioner, along with training by staff on proper lens care and handling, and the practice’s technology and workflow.
ReVision Optometry is a referral-based practice in San Diego providing contact lens services for patients with keratoconus. To schedule an appointment, request your appointment online, or call our office at 619.299.6064.