Vision Therapy in Greater Lowell

Are Scleral Contact Lenses Right for You?

(978) 452-0127

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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119 Reviews
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- Sep. 12, 2024
I’ve been going to doctor Karelekas for many years! He is great at his job and he has the nicest p... ersonality! I would definitely recommend him to anyone!
- Jul. 12, 2024
Dr. Karalekas is awesome! He conducts thorough and high-quality eye exams without rushing through ap... pointments. His genuine concern for your eye health is evident, ensuring that you receive detailed answers to any questions, making it a natural, comfortable, and informative experience. Dr. K's commitment to personalized care makes this practice highly recommended!
- Jul. 12, 2023
Great eye care. Very helpful and friendly staff. Dr. Sikalis is an amazing Optometrist. Highly recom... mend.
- Mar. 21, 2023
Great experience! My concerns were listened to and everything was explained very clearly to help wit... h my dry eyes. Tori and Debbie were extremely helpful when I was picking out glasses. I'm very indecisive and they both had great patience and gave me great advice!
- Nov. 12, 2022
Very professional. Well organized. Dr. Sikalis takes time to explain everything to you. Great plac... e!!
- Nov. 09, 2022
Very thorough with eye exams and staff is so warm and friendly!
- Oct. 07, 2022
A long term patient of Steve Sikalis, I can’t say enough about the care and consideration I receiv... e. Steve takes the time to explain everything to me and I know he joins me in advocating for my eye health. Proficient and friendly; that’s what I want in my health care professionals. Dr Sikalis is all that and more.
- Sep. 28, 2022
Very nice stuffs. . On time appointments. Happy to be there .
- Jul. 28, 2022
Been going here for years. Staff is always pleasant, and Dr. Sikalis is wonderful!
- Jul. 27, 2022
Loved
- Jun. 29, 2022
I brought my dad here as a new patient, Dr. Harney is very efficient, took his time and explain ever... ything relating to diabetic eye disease.
- Apr. 28, 2022
Very friendly coming in. The doctor took time in explaining his findings and what they meant. Friend... ly with helping pick out glasses.
- Apr. 07, 2022
Dr Chris K is such an awesome human being. He has taken care of my dad and daughter’s eyes for yea... rs. The team is amazing at this practice. I strongly recommend Advanced Eye Care Associates.
- Mar. 30, 2022
The staff was kind and efficient! I would definitely recommend Advanced Eye Associates!
- Mar. 17, 2022
I really liked this place and was comfortable being there.. very nice people here.. would definitely... recommend it
- Feb. 21, 2022
Very friendly, very efficient, thorough eye exam. Doctor took the time to talk and explain. Everyb... ody works together seamlessly - it is obviously a very well-run office, and it is also obvious that everybody loves working there and being a part of the team. Wife had diabetes, glaucoma, and other conditions. She went here for several years and loved them and the care she got. They took good care of her, and she - and I - couldn't say enough nice things about them.
- Feb. 17, 2022
Dr Sikalis is an excellent educator on your eye health and well-being. Glad I found this office many... years ago.
- Feb. 01, 2022
Gone there for years, everyone is so nice and helpful!
- Jan. 28, 2022
They are very friendly ,very professional They explained everything to me what's going on I was very... pleased with the service i would recommend it to everyone.
- Jan. 25, 2022
I had the BEST experience at Advanced Eye Care with Dr. Karalekas! I was in need of an immediate ap... pointment, and found this practice on the VSP website under their premier office listings. The staff was extremely professional and helpful, and booked a same-day appointment for my emergency. Dr. Karalekas was kind, empathetic, and had a wonderful manner with me as a patient. He addressed all my concerns and was able to refer me to a specialist (also the same day!) for a second opinion on my issue. The staff at Advanced Eye Care Associates was wonderful and I'll be switching my routine wellness visits to this office. I was so pleased and happy to have found this practice on a quick search, and am looking forward to receiving my regular care here. Thank you again from a very satisfied NEW patient!!!

View All 119 Reviews

Scleral Lenses in Greater Lowell

Our optometry practice in Greater Lowell

Photograph of Steven P.  Sikalis
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
  • Nov. 28 Closed
  • Nov. 29 Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

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 Advanced EyeCare Associates. 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 Advanced EyeCare Associates today and explore the benefits of scleral lenses and determine if you're a suitable candidate.

(978) 452-0127