Are Scleral Lenses a Comfortable Option for Children?

When children face vision challenges that go beyond what glasses or standard contact lenses can correct, it’s natural for parents to look for alternatives that offer both effectiveness and comfort. Scleral lenses, known for their specialized design and ability to manage complex eye conditions, are one such option. Let’s explore how scleral lenses work and whether they’re a good fit for children’s unique needs.
 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas-permeable contact lenses that rest on the white part of the eye and vault over the cornea. This design creates a fluid-filled space between the lens and the eye’s surface, keeping the cornea hydrated and protected while delivering crisp, stable vision. They are commonly used for conditions that cannot be corrected with glasses or standard soft contact lenses, including:

• Keratoconus

• High astigmatism

• Irregular corneal shape due to injury
   

Are They Comfortable for Kids?

Despite their size, scleral lenses are surprisingly comfortable - even for children. Because the lenses do not touch the sensitive corneal surface and are filled with preservative-free saline, they often reduce discomfort associated with other types of lenses or eye conditions. Children with corneal irritation often report an improvement in comfort after switching to scleral lenses.
 

Additionally, children are highly adaptable. Once they become familiar with the process of inserting and removing the lenses, many find them easy to wear throughout the day with little to no discomfort.
 

What Makes Scleral Lenses a Good Option for Pediatric Patients?

• Stable Vision: They offer excellent visual clarity, even for children with irregular or damaged corneas.

• Eye Protection: The lenses act as a shield, protecting the eye from allergens, dust, and dryness.

• Hydration: The fluid reservoir provides constant moisture, ideal for children suffering from dry eye.

• Durability: Scleral lenses are long-lasting and less likely to tear compared to soft lenses.
   

The Importance of Lens Care and Hygiene

Proper lens care and hygiene are especially important for children wearing scleral lenses to ensure both comfort and eye health. Because children may not yet have fully developed habits around cleanliness, it’s essential that parents or caregivers closely supervise the daily cleaning, disinfecting, and storage process. Teaching children to wash their hands before handling lenses, follow the recommended care routine, and avoid wearing lenses longer than advised helps prevent infections and keeps their eyes healthy. Establishing good hygiene practices early on builds long-term responsibility and confidence in managing their vision needs.
 

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Scleral lenses can be a comfortable and effective vision solution for children with specific ocular conditions. With proper fit, training, and care, these lenses not only provide excellent vision correction but also improve overall eye comfort. If your child has been struggling with glasses or traditional contact lenses, it may be time to explore scleral lenses as an option.
 

At Esther Ahn Optometry, we specialize in pediatric eye care and customized contact lens fittings. Schedule an appointment to find out if scleral lenses are the right fit for your child. Visit our office in Cerritos, California, call (562) 809-4041, or use this link to book an appointment today.