Treatment

Scleral Contact Lenses

Also known as Scleral Lenses, Specialty Contact Lenses, PROSE Lenses, Keratoconus Contacts, Dry Eye Scleral Lenses

Updated May 16, 2026For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for medical advice. See our terms.

Bottom Line

Scleral contact lenses are large rigid lenses that rest on the white of the eye. They vault over the cornea and can improve vision or comfort when standard lenses fail.

Scleral contact lenses are larger than regular contacts. They land on the sclera, the white part of the eye, and vault over the cornea with fluid underneath 1.

They can help irregular corneas, keratoconus, corneal scars, severe dry eye, and some post-surgery eyes. The fluid reservoir can protect and hydrate the cornea 2.

Fitting takes more time than soft contacts. Good cleaning, safe handling, and follow-up are important because poor fit or poor hygiene can cause problems 1.

How Scleral Lenses Work

A scleral lens does not sit on the cornea. It vaults over it and rests on the white part of the eye.

The space under the lens is filled with preservative-free saline. This fluid smooths the optical surface and can keep a dry or damaged cornea moist 2.

Because the lens is rigid, it can mask irregular corneal shape better than glasses or soft contacts.

Who They Help

Scleral lenses are often used for:

  • Keratoconus. The lens creates a smooth front surface for clearer vision.
  • Corneal scars or transplants. The lens can cover an uneven cornea.
  • Severe dry eye. The fluid reservoir protects the surface.
  • Eye surface disease. Some inflammatory or scarring conditions improve with protection.
  • Post-laser surgery irregularity. The lens can improve quality of vision.

A specialty fitter decides whether the eye can wear the lens safely.

Risks and Fitting Challenges

Scleral lenses are helpful, but they need careful fitting.

  • Midday fogging. Debris can cloud the fluid under the lens.
  • Redness or edge pressure. The lens edge may need adjustment.
  • Low oxygen stress. Lens thickness and fit affect oxygen reaching the cornea.
  • Bubbles. A bubble under the lens can blur vision and irritate the cornea.
  • Infection. Poor cleaning or sleeping in lenses raises risk.

Reviews describe fitting challenges such as fogging, conjunctival prolapse, and oxygen issues 1.

Take the lens out and call the office for pain, light sensitivity, discharge, or a red eye that does not clear.

Cost and Insurance

Scleral lens fitting is more complex than standard contact lens fitting. A typical total cost is about $1,000-$4,000 for fitting, training, and lenses before insurance.

Medical insurance may cover part of the cost when lenses are medically necessary for keratoconus, corneal disease, or severe eye surface disease. Routine vision plans may cover less.

Ask for a written estimate that separates fitting fees, lens materials, follow-up visits, and replacement lenses.

Common Questions About Scleral Contact Lenses

Many people find them comfortable after training because the lens does not rub directly on the cornea.

Next Steps

  1. 1Book a specialty contact lens fitting if glasses or soft contacts no longer work.
  2. 2Bring past cornea scans, prescriptions, and contact lens records.
  3. 3Ask for a written cost estimate before ordering lenses.
  4. 4Practice insertion, removal, and cleaning before taking lenses home.
  5. 5Remove the lens and call the office for pain, discharge, or lasting redness.

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