You’ve finally found a contact lens that actually works for your eyes. Your vision is clear, the comfort is there, and you’re wondering how soon you’ll need to replace them. It’s a fair question, especially because scleral lenses can require more investment than a typical soft lens. At Oxford Optometry, we work with people who rely on scleral lenses every day, and 1 of the most common questions we hear is how long the lenses will last.
Scleral lenses typically last between 1 and 3 years, though some people need replacements sooner depending on their eyes and care habits. Knowing what affects that timeline can help you get the most out of every pair.
What Scleral Lenses Are and How They Work
Scleral lenses are larger, rigid lenses that rest on the white part of the eye, called the sclera, rather than sitting directly on the cornea (the clear outer layer of the eye). Before you put them in, you fill the bowl of the lens with saline solution. That fluid layer sits between the lens and your eye all day, which is a big part of why they can feel more comfortable than some other options.
Because they vault over the cornea rather than resting directly on it, they’re a good option for eyes with irregular shapes. Soft lenses follow the eye’s surface, which doesn’t always work well when that surface is uneven. Scleral lenses are designed to create a smooth, stable fit instead.
The Lifespan of Scleral Lenses
What to Expect from Your Lenses
With proper care, most scleral lenses are expected to last at least one year. Some lenses may last longer, while others need replacement sooner because of changes in the eyes, lens wear, or damage.
Your optometrist in Woodstock can monitor the condition and fit of your lenses during regular follow-up visits, so you don’t have to guess when replacement is needed. It’s also important to remember that changes in your prescription or eye health may require your lenses to be replaced, even if they appear to be in good condition.
When Replacement Becomes Necessary
A change in your prescription or eye shape means your current lenses may no longer fit the way they should. Even small shifts can affect how the lens vaults over the cornea, which changes how clearly and comfortably you see.
Deposits or surface damage can also reduce comfort and vision quality. Scratches, changes to the lens surface, or changes in fit are all signs that it may be time for a replacement.
Factors That Affect How Long Your Lenses Last
Proper daily cleaning and handling have the greatest impact on how long your lenses last. Using the recommended cleaning solutions, handling your lenses carefully, and following your prescribed care routine all help maintain lens quality.
Changes to your prescription, corneal shape, or eye health may also require your lenses to be replaced, even if they are otherwise in good condition. Regular follow-up appointments allow your eye doctor to ensure your lenses continue to fit safely and provide the best possible vision.
How to Care for Your Scleral Lenses
Your Daily Cleaning Routine
Before you handle your lenses, wash your hands thoroughly. It’s one of the most important steps because anything on your hands transfers directly to the lens surface.
Use only cleaning solutions recommended for scleral lenses. Daily cleaning is essential to remove deposits and reduce the risk of infection. If your lenses have a HydraPeg coating, some cleaning products can damage the coating, so it’s important to follow your eye doctor’s recommendations.
Never use tap water or saliva on your lenses. Tap water can contain microorganisms, including Acanthamoeba, which can cause serious, sight-threatening eye infections. Always rinse and fill your lenses using the products recommended by your eye doctor.
Storage Tips That Can Extend Lens Life
Store your lenses according to your eye doctor’s instructions. Most scleral lenses should be disinfected and stored in a clean case after use, while lenses with a HydraPeg coating should remain stored wet. Always follow the care instructions specific to your lenses.
If you ever have questions about your routine, we provide contact lens exams and fittings and would be happy to review the proper care for your specific lenses.
Who Benefits Most From Scleral Lenses
Keratoconus
Scleral lenses are often a good fit for people with keratoconus or other conditions that change the shape of the cornea. Because they vault over the irregular cornea, they create a smooth optical surface that can provide clearer, more stable vision than standard contact lenses.
Dry Eye and Other Conditions
Scleral lenses may also benefit people with severe dry eye by creating a fluid reservoir that helps protect and hydrate the surface of the eye throughout the day.
Anyone who needs stable, comfortable vision correction and hasn’t found success with glasses or conventional contact lenses may benefit from a scleral lens assessment.
Find Out if Scleral Lenses Are Right for You
If you’re curious whether scleral lenses are a good match for your eyes, our team at Oxford Optometry would be happy to walk you through your options. We offer specialty contact lens fittings and personalized care to help you find the right solution for your vision. Book your consultation today.
