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.


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
Patient Reviews
4.6
298 Reviews
5
4
3
2
1
- 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.
- Feb. 17, 2024
I called at 9:30 am., and there was an opening for an eye exam at 10:30 am. the same day! Both of th... e doctors that I have had appointments with over the past 6 years, have been knowledgeable and thorough. Dr. Brauer discovered I had Narrow Angle Glaucoma, and referred me to an Opthomologist, who performed a Laser Iridotomy.👁
- Jan. 27, 2024
Our whole family sees Dr Kennedy! He’s top Notch!!! All our children totally trust him! He’s so ... kind and gentle to them! Very knowledgeable and thorough for his exams! Had an eye emergency and got right in to see him for a quick fix! Our family cannot say enough about Dr Kennedy! Gil is also very good in optical! Very knowledgeable and helpful!
- Jan. 24, 2024
Bree was excellent in the ‘pre-doctor’ exams. Dr. Kennedy was thorough and I finally feel I have... a true explanation of what is going on with my eyes.
- Jan. 20, 2024
I highly recommend Elgin Family Eye Care to everyone.
- Jan. 05, 2024
Great eye doctor and great staff. Very quick service and friendly staff!
- Dec. 09, 2023
I have been a patient for many, many years. From the moment I walk in and throughout my visit, the ... individuals at the front desk are always professional and friendly. The person who checked me in was also very helpful in answering any questions I had. Dr. Kennedy has always been professional and kind. He is thorough, patient and takes the time to listen to and answer your questions. At this time, I have no intention of going anywhere else for eye care. I have also had great customer service from everyone at Elgin Family EyeCare. Kudos to the staff.
- Nov. 19, 2023
The doctors are very knowledgeable and take their time explaining everything to you. Their sales ass... ociates are also very knowledgeable and take their time assisting you through the eyeglasses and contact purchase.
- Nov. 17, 2023
The staff and Doctors at Elgin Family Eye truly care and it shows in their interactions with patient... s and with each other. They are amazing and you will not be disappointed that you decided to book an appointment with them!
- Nov. 16, 2023
The very best eye doctor ever. Dr. Kennedy is so professional, extremely knowledgeable thorough expl... ains everything answered all your questions. You can tell he’s very caring passionate about his career. Thank you!
- Nov. 10, 2023
I highly recommend Elgin Family Eyecare. Dr. Brauer is wonderful!
- Nov. 08, 2023
The staff are all great - very helpful and kind. They seem interested in preventative care as well, ... with the exam that takes an image of the back of the eye. Never had that done before at any other eye doctor, but it was informative and interesting. Dr Kennedy made me feel comfortable and answered all my questions, even did a quick follow up exam after putting in my new contacts to ensure I had the correct prescription. Great experience!
- Oct. 31, 2023
Always a great experience!
- Oct. 26, 2023
Very helpful, welcoming and professional.

View All 298 Reviews


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