Adjusting to Life With Scleral Lenses: What to Expect

If you’ve been struggling with chronic dry eye, keratoconus, or discomfort in standard contact lenses, scleral lenses may offer the clarity and comfort you’ve been missing. These specialty lenses create a smooth optical surface and provide a protective, hydrating environment for the eye - making them a transformative option for many patients.

 

What Makes Scleral Lenses Different?

Unlike traditional contacts that rest directly on the cornea, scleral lenses gently vault over it and sit on the sclera (the white part of the eye). This design offers several advantages:

•          Unmatched comfort - The fluid reservoir beneath the lens keeps the eye moisturized throughout the day.

•          Clearer, more stable vision - Ideal for irregular corneas, keratoconus, post-surgical eyes, and high prescriptions.

•          Reduced irritation - With minimal contact on the sensitive cornea, many patients report all-day comfort.

Because they’re larger and customized for your eyes, there’s a short period of adaptation - but most patients find the transition smooth with the right guidance.

 

Getting Comfortable With the Fit

During the first few days of wearing scleral lenses, it’s completely normal to notice a few changes as your eyes adapt. One of the biggest adjustments is learning how to insert and remove the lenses. Because scleral lenses are larger and must be filled with solution before insertion, the process is different from what soft contact lens wearers are used to. You may also experience mild awareness of the lenses at first. Your eyelids need a little time to adjust to the larger diameter, but this sensation typically fades as your eyes adapt to the new fit.

Another common experience is a noticeable improvement in vision right away. Many patients achieve clearer, more stable vision from day one, while others may require small adjustments to fine-tune the fit and achieve the best possible clarity.

 

What About Long-Term Wear?

Once you’re fully adjusted, scleral lenses often become the most comfortable and reliable vision option available. Long-term benefits include:

•          Lasting relief from dry eye symptoms

•          Sharp, consistent vision even with irregular corneas

•          Increased comfort during long workdays or screen use

Most patients wear them comfortably for 8-12 hours a day or more.

 

Tips for a Smooth Transition

To get the most out of your scleral lenses:

•          Follow the cleaning routine your doctor recommends

•          Use the proper filling solutions - never tap water

•          Attend follow-up appointments to fine-tune the fit

•          Give yourself time to learn the insertion technique

 

Discover if Scleral Lenses Are Right for You

Adjusting to scleral lenses is a worthwhile investment in comfort, clarity, and long-term eye health. With expert fitting and personalized guidance, most patients adapt quickly and enjoy life-changing improvements in their vision.

If you’re curious whether scleral lenses are right for you, contact Chelsea Vision Associates to schedule an eye exam today. Visit our office in New York, NY, or call (212) 243-5898 to book an appointment.