The Difference Between Scleral and Standard Contact Lenses

When it comes to correcting vision, contact lenses offer a convenient and comfortable alternative to glasses. For individuals with unique vision needs or irregular corneas, scleral lenses may be recommended over standard contact lenses. At Village Family Eyecare, we help patients understand their options and choose the lenses that best support their eye health and lifestyle.

What Are Traditional Contact Lenses?

Standard contact lenses are typically soft lenses that sit directly on the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye. These lenses are often used to correct common vision problems such as:

• Nearsightedness (myopia)

• Farsightedness (hyperopia)

• Astigmatism

They are available in daily, bi-weekly, or monthly wear options, and many people find them easy to adjust to and wear comfortably throughout the day. While standard lenses work well for most people, they may not provide optimal vision correction or comfort for individuals with certain eye conditions.

Understanding Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are larger, rigid gas-permeable lenses that rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) rather than directly on the cornea. Because of their size and shape, they create a fluid-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea. This makes them particularly beneficial for individuals with:

• Keratoconus or other corneal irregularities

• Dry eye syndrome

• Post-surgical eyes (e.g., after LASIK or corneal transplant)

• Severe astigmatism or high refractive errors

Scleral lenses are custom-designed for each patient, offering a precise fit and improved comfort for those who may not tolerate standard lenses well.

Key Differences Between Scleral and Standard Contact Lenses

One of the most noticeable differences between scleral and standard contact lenses is their size and placement. Standard lenses are smaller and rest directly on the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. In contrast, scleral lenses are larger and rest on the sclera—the white part of the eye—vaulting entirely over the cornea. This design creates a tear-filled pocket between the lens and the eye, which helps provide moisture and protection, especially beneficial for those with dry eye or corneal irregularities.

Comfort and fit also set these lenses apart. Standard lenses are generally suitable for most people with regular-shaped corneas and are available in mass-produced sizes. Scleral lenses, on the other hand, are custom-made to fit each individual’s eye, offering a more stable and secure fit. Because they don’t rest directly on the sensitive cornea, many patients with corneal issues find scleral lenses more comfortable, even if they’ve struggled with other types of lenses in the past.

Another key distinction is the purpose and use case. Standard contact lenses are commonly prescribed for typical vision corrections, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia. Scleral lenses are typically recommended for more complex or “hard-to-fit” eyes—conditions like keratoconus, post-surgical eyes, or severe dry eye syndrome—where standard lenses may not provide adequate vision or comfort.

Finally, customization plays a significant role. While standard lenses come in a range of preset parameters, scleral lenses are uniquely crafted to match the contours of each patient’s eye. This ensures not only better vision correction but also enhanced long-term comfort and eye health.

Which One Is Right for You?

The right choice depends on your specific eye condition, comfort needs, and lifestyle. While standard contact lenses are a convenient and effective solution for many patients, those with more complex vision challenges often find significant relief and clarity with scleral lenses.

Schedule your eye exam with Village Family Eyecare to learn more about scleral lenses or contact lens options and find the fit that’s right for you. Visit our office in Ada, Michigan, or call (616)271-0988 to book an appointment today.