As we age, our eyes change in ways that affect both comfort and clarity. For many patients, dry eye syndrome becomes a persistent challenge, leaving eyes irritated, watery, or burning. Others develop age-related vision changes that make glasses or standard contact lenses less effective. At Mill Creek Vision, we often recommend scleral lenses as a powerful solution — especially for patients in Mill Creek dealing with chronic dry eye or age-related eye conditions.
What Are Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are large, gas-permeable contact lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). Unlike standard lenses, scleral lenses create a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the eye’s surface, providing both comfort and vision correction.
This unique design offers two major benefits:
- Relief from Dry Eye: The moisture layer hydrates and protects the cornea, soothing symptoms of dry eye disease.
- Improved Vision Quality: The smooth optical surface of the lens corrects irregularities in the cornea, helping patients achieve sharper, more stable vision.
Why They’re Ideal for Dry Eye Patients
Dry eye disease is increasingly common, especially in adults over 50. Age-related changes in tear production, medical conditions, and certain medications can all contribute. Traditional treatments—like artificial tears or prescription eye drops—help, but often don’t provide enough relief.
Scleral lenses work differently. By keeping the eye’s surface continuously bathed in fluid, they reduce irritation, improve comfort, and protect against further corneal damage. For many patients with moderate to severe dry eye, scleral lenses are life-changing.
Supporting Aging Eyes
Beyond dry eye, scleral lenses also benefit patients with age-related eye conditions such as:
- Presbyopia: Scleral lenses can incorporate multifocal designs for clear vision at near and far distances.
- Corneal irregularities: Conditions like keratoconus, scarring, or post-surgical changes are common in older adults. Scleral lenses restore smooth, clear vision in cases where glasses or standard lenses fall short.
- Eye surgery recovery: After cataract or corneal surgery, scleral lenses can stabilize vision and promote healing.
This versatility makes scleral lenses a valuable option for older adults seeking both comfort and clarity.
Advanced Care at Mill Creek Vision
At Mill Creek Vision, our team specializes in fitting scleral lenses to meet each patient’s unique needs. Using advanced diagnostic technology, we evaluate the corneal surface, tear film, and eye health to design custom-fit lenses. We also provide ongoing monitoring to ensure long-term comfort and effectiveness.
Our clinic offers scleral lenses alongside other advanced treatments like OptiLight dry eye therapy, myopia management, and NeuroLens — allowing us to create a holistic, tailored approach to vision care.
Book Your Scleral Lens Consultation in Mill Creek
If you’re struggling with dry eye symptoms, blurry vision, or age-related eye changes, scleral lenses may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Comfortable, effective, and highly customizable, they can restore both comfort and clarity.
Schedule an eye care appointment at Mill Creek Vision in Mill Creek to learn how scleral lenses can transform your eye health and quality of life.
