Scleral Lenses: What They Are, Who Needs Them, and How They Help

When your eyes are too dry, too irregular, or too sensitive for regular contacts, scleral lenses, large-diameter contact lenses that rest on the white of the eye (sclera) and vault over the cornea. Also known as scleral contact lenses, they create a fluid-filled space that protects the cornea and delivers consistent vision. Unlike standard contacts that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses avoid painful contact with damaged or uneven surfaces—making them a lifeline for people who’ve been told they can’t wear contacts at all.

They’re not just for rare conditions. While keratoconus, a progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea that distorts vision is the most common reason people turn to scleral lenses, they’re also used for severe dry eye, a condition where the eyes don’t make enough tears or the tears evaporate too fast, post-surgical complications, and corneal scarring from injury or infection. The liquid reservoir under the lens acts like a constant saline bath, soothing irritation and improving clarity without relying on eye drops every few hours. People with these issues often report going from blurry, painful vision to sharp, comfortable sight within days of fitting.

What makes scleral lenses different isn’t just size—it’s design. They’re custom-made using detailed scans of your eye, so they fit like a glove without pressing down. That means no rubbing, no burning, no constant adjustment. They’re also durable, lasting up to a year or more with proper care. But they’re not for everyone. You need a specialist to fit them, and they cost more than regular contacts. Still, for those who’ve tried everything else and still can’t see clearly or comfortably, they’re often the only solution that works.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides and patient experiences covering everything from how scleral lenses compare to other contact types, to managing discomfort, to what to expect during your first fitting. Whether you’re newly diagnosed with keratoconus, struggling with dry eye that won’t quit, or just curious why these lenses are turning heads in eye care, you’ll find practical answers here—no jargon, no fluff, just what you need to know.