CONTACT LENSES PROVIDE millions of patients with amazing vision despite their presbyopia, but this vision always seems to come with some level of compromise. Traditional soft lenses have limited add powers and generally have 1 or 2 “zone” sizes for patients. Additionally, patients oftentimes drop out of contact lenses as they get close to presbyopia because of discomfort or dryness. While many contact lens types can provide patients with adequate vision and comfort, one contact lens type keeps rising in the ranks: scleral lenses.

Scleral Lenses: Unparalleled Stability

When it comes to stable vision, scleral lenses have advantages over traditional contact lenses. Unlike standard lenses, scleral lenses do not move on the eye, providing patients with consistent vision because they keep the optics stable for the patients. This stability also offers reduced lens awareness and increased comfort. Patients no longer have to worry about their lenses shifting or causing discomfort or about fluctuating vision because of lens movement.

Customization for Optimal Vision

A remarkable advantage of scleral lenses is the ability to customize the optic zone size. Optic zone customization allows practitioners to tailor the size of the optic zone to match the patients’ pupil sizes. Customization of the lenses allows for the use of different optic zone sizes and varying add powers between the eyes to achieve a unique setup for the patient to meet their visual needs. By fine tuning the lens design to fit each patient’s unique visual needs, scleral lenses can significantly enhance the quality of vision.

Dry Eye Relief and Protection

Dry eye is a common challenge faced by many presbyopic individuals. Fortunately, scleral lenses offer a protective shield over the ocular surface. We have observed that, by creating a reservoir of fluid that rests against the ocular surface, scleral lenses may aid in moisture retention, alleviating dryness and irritation, and this process can really help patients with discomfort. The lens design appears to act as a shield, which may protect the eyes from desiccating stress and may help to maintain a stable tear film.

Conclusion

Scleral lenses have emerged as a stable presbyopic solution, providing enhanced vision and relief for dry eye symptoms. Their unparalleled stability ensures consistent vision without lens movement, improving patient comfort and satisfaction. With customizable optic zones, eyecare professionals can tailor the lens design to maximize visual acuity and address individual needs. Consider embracing this innovative lens modality, with improved optics and enhanced comfort. What more do we need from a presbyopic contact lens? ■

Dr. Kading owns 3 practices in the Seattle area (Specialty Eye), focusing on dry eye disease, specialty lenses, and front of the eye problems. He performs research as part of the postgraduate residency that he hosts in Seattle, and he lectures internationally.