Vision Therapy in Elgin

Are Scleral Contact Lenses Right for You?

(847) 888-1555

Scleral Lenses Candidates

Scleral lenses are custom-designed to offer remarkable visual acuity and comfort improvements for individuals with sensitive eyes or corneal irregularities. Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, creating an improved optical surface.

This design minimizes irritation to the cornea and provides exceptional comfort. Additionally, a reservoir of pure saline solution between the back surface of the lens and the front of the cornea ensures that the eye is consistently submerged in a liquid environment, promoting optimal eye health and comfort.

Scleral lenses are particularly well-suited for hard-to-fit eyes, such as individuals with keratoconus, astigmatism, or medium-high astigmatism that cannot be corrected comfortably with other contact lenses. They also offer the advantage of all-day hydration for comfortable wear.

smiling man with glasses


Are Scleral Lenses Superior to Traditional Gas-Permeable Lenses?

In terms of comfort, visual clarity, and stability, scleral lenses outperform small diameter rigid gas-permeable lenses. For individuals with corneal irregularities or heightened sensitivity, scleral lenses are often the preferred and sometimes the only viable option.

It's important to note that while scleral lenses offer numerous benefits, they may come at a higher cost compared to various other gas-permeable lenses, but may be covered by insurance in certain cases. The decision regarding which contact lens is best for your needs should be made in consultation with our team of experts.

Whether you're a first-time wearer with nearsightedness or have complex vision needs such as astigmatism, bifocals, or a distorted cornea, we are here to provide you with the most suitable solution.

Several factors determine whether you're a suitable candidate for scleral contact lenses:

  • Corneal Irregularities

    Scleral lenses are often prescribed for individuals with irregular corneas, such as keratoconus, corneal ectasia, or post-surgical complications. These lenses provide a smooth, uniform refractive surface, improving vision.

  • Dry Eye Syndrome

    Scleral lenses can be a game-changer for people struggling with dry eyes. The reservoir of saline solution between the lens and the eye helps keep the eye surface consistently moist, reducing discomfort and improving vision.

  • Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC

    GPC is a condition where the inner eyelid becomes inflamed due to contact lens irritation. Scleral lenses can be an excellent solution for GPC patients. Due to a customized edge profile, scleral lenses are shown to have less frictional impact on the sensitive inner eyelid.

  • Severe Astigmatism

    Scleral lenses can correct astigmatism effectively. The stable fit provided by these lenses ensures astigmatic patients enjoy clear and stable vision throughout the day.

  • Ocular Surface Disorders

    Individuals with ocular surface disorders like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or Sjögren's syndrome can benefit from the constant hydration and protection provided by scleral lenses.

  • Complex Prescriptions

    Scleral lenses are customizable to correct even the most complex vision problems, making them suitable for individuals with multifocal or high prescriptions.

  • Intolerance to Traditional Lenses

    If you've had discomfort or intolerance with traditional contact lenses, including soft or rigid gas-permeable lenses, scleral lenses may offer a more comfortable alternative.

Patient Reviews
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336 Reviews
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- Oct. 08, 2024
I was extremely satisfied & impressed with everything.
- Sep. 27, 2024
The staffs and doctors are kind and friendly to the children. Also, their consideration and understa... nding towards me, who is my poor English, was wonderful.
- Sep. 21, 2024
Our entire family uses Elgin Family Eyecare, including our daughter (since she was four!) They're al... l so great!
- Sep. 11, 2024
Always great service, kind staff, and the best doctors anywhere.
- Sep. 09, 2024
Love our new optometrist and staff very friendly and professional. My husband and I saw Dr. O’Neil... l and loved that he took the time to ask if we had any plans for the day and on top was very profesional and answer all of our questions. Our Daughter saw Dr. Kennedy and although he wasn’t able to perform an extended visit due to our daughter needs he was extraordinary professional. Also Gilbert was very patient with teaching her with eye contact lenses. Thank you!
- Aug. 16, 2024
Easy to make an appointment, friendly service and affordable.
- Aug. 05, 2024
The staff was excellent with my young son. Staff was caring and kind. It was very busy that Sarurday... but we never felt rushed or not taken care of. Appointment was efficient, prompt and Dr. O'Neil was attentive and professional.
- Aug. 02, 2024
My son can be a bit wild since he is 5 but the staff was very kind and patient with him
- Jul. 24, 2024
Very detail orientated--highly recommend Elgin Eye Care!!
- Jul. 10, 2024
The service was efficient and delightful. My son and I thoroughly adored Dr. Kennedy. He kept us smi... ling and laughing through both of our exams.
- Jul. 08, 2024
Wow what a great place! Stellar service with all my questions answered. Plus I CAN SEE NOW!! Yippee!... !
- Jun. 27, 2024
Dr Nakajima is incredibly informative and the other staff members I encountered were very friendly a... nd approachable.
- Jun. 21, 2024
I trust Dr. Brauer and the rest of the staff and I feel confident I am getting the best care possibl... e.
- May. 05, 2024
I was looking for a new pair of glasses at Elgin Family Eye Care. Lexi is a wonderful help! She list... ened to my preferences for frames and helped me to discover several possibilities. (It would have taken me hours to work through the many styles, shapes and frame colors.). She answered my questions and made this experience very pleasant! If you need help picking out new frames, I recommend Lexi!!
- Apr. 28, 2024
They were great
- Apr. 10, 2024
Very friendly staff. Huge selection of glasses to choose from
- Mar. 23, 2024
This is a great eye care place from to start to finish.
- Mar. 23, 2024
Awesome staff--friendly and helpful. Dr. Kennedy is awesome and explained all procedures and results... well. Great selection of eye glasses. They processed everything through with my insurance so it was extremely easy for me.
- Mar. 13, 2024
Great doctors and office staff. Professional and friendly. The providers are very thorough and take ... the time to answer questions, show images and explain any problems or concerns and refer out to other specialist when appropriate!!
- Feb. 29, 2024
Proper care and support. Did not try and sell me things which were unnecessary. They fitted my cur... rent expensive frames with the new lenses with a great final product.

View All 336 Reviews

Scleral Lenses in Elgin

Our optometry practice in Elgin

Photograph of Michael  Kennedy
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • MetLife
  • Blue Cross

woman putting in contact

Consult with Our Scleral Lens Experts

The best way to determine your candidacy for scleral contact lenses is through a comprehensive eye examination and consultation with Elgin Family EyeCare. During this evaluation, your eye doctor will assess your eye health, vision prescription, and specific needs. They will also take precise measurements to ensure a proper fit.

If you've been struggling with vision issues or discomfort related to your current eyewear, scleral contact lenses could be the solution you've been looking for. 

Don't let your eye condition limit your quality of life; Schedule an appointment with Elgin Family EyeCare today and explore the benefits of scleral lenses and determine if you're a suitable candidate.

(847) 888-1555