Scleral lenses are more than standard contact lenses — they’re an advanced solution designed for people with specific medical conditions or unique eye shapes. To benefit fully from their advantages, it’s essential to understand the proper daily wear time, care techniques, and when to replace them.
In this guide, we’ll cover how long you should wear scleral lenses each day, how your eye condition affects wear time, and how to properly care for and replace your lenses. Whether you already use scleral lenses or are considering them, this article will help you use them safely and effectively.
Recommended Daily Wear Time for Scleral Lenses
For most patients, the typical recommendation is 8 to 12 hours of wear time per day, and sometimes even longer. However, this can vary based on individual eye sensitivity.
For example, patients with corneal grafts or highly sensitive eyes may need to start with shorter wear periods and gradually increase wear time under professional monitoring. People working long hours at a computer or in dry environments should also pay special attention to their comfort levels.
Overwearing lenses can cause discomfort or eye fatigue, so breaks and listening to your eyes are essential.
Do Different Lens Types Have Different Wear Times?
Yes. The type of scleral lens and its purpose can directly affect wear time:
- Medical-purpose scleral lenses (e.g., for keratoconus or chronic dry eye): Meant for daytime use only, usually worn for most of the day but removed at night.
- Overnight therapeutic lenses: Worn during sleep and removed in the morning; follow very different protocols.
- Patients working in challenging environments (e.g., dry air, exposure to chemicals, screen-heavy jobs) may require specific recommendations — but scleral lenses are generally more comfortable than being without them.
Still, they should be removed before sleep and reinserted in the morning.
How to Properly Care for Your Scleral Lenses
Proper care is not only about comfort — it’s essential for your eye health. Here’s how to care for your lenses:
- Daily cleaning: Use only the recommended cleaning solution for scleral lenses. Cleaning removes debris, oils, and bacteria that accumulate throughout the day.
- Use sterile saline — never tap water. Tap water can introduce harmful microorganisms to your eyes.
- Proper storage: Store your lenses in a clean case with fresh solution every day.
- Routine check-ups: Regular visits to your eye care professional are critical for monitoring both lens fit and ocular health.
When Should You Replace Your Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are more durable than soft contacts, but they still need replacement. Key reasons include:
- Wear and tear: Over time, the lens surface can degrade, affecting fit and vision quality.
- Residue buildup: Despite daily cleaning, protein and lipid deposits may accumulate and reduce comfort.
- Changes in eye shape: Aging or medical conditions can alter the cornea’s shape, requiring a new fitting.
While scleral lenses technically don’t have an expiration date, ongoing follow-ups with your optometrist are vital. If you experience discomfort or a drop in visual clarity, it may be time to replace your lenses.
Tips for Long-Term Success with Scleral Lenses
To maximize comfort and safety:
- Start gradually if you’re new to scleral lenses. Let your eyes adapt according to your eye doctor’s plan.
- Always follow insertion/removal instructions and use only the solutions prescribed by your specialist.
- Consult your optometrist regularly for updates to your routine or lens specifications.
Conclusion
Scleral lenses offer an excellent solution for medical and visual challenges — but only when used properly. By understanding the recommended daily wear time, committing to proper cleaning habits, and replacing lenses as needed, you can enjoy better vision and long-term eye health.
Every eye is unique. That’s why personalized fitting and professional guidance are crucial. A small adjustment today can make a significant difference in your quality of life tomorrow.
