Scleral Lenses vs. Traditional Contacts: Which Is Right for Your Eye Condition?

When it comes to vision correction, contact lenses offer convenience and clarity for countless patients. But not all lenses are created equal - especially if you have unique eye conditions or experience discomfort with standard lenses. At 808 Eye Care, our eye doctor in Honolulu helps patients find the ideal solution. One of the most common comparisons patients ask about is between scleral lenses and traditional contact lenses.
 

What Are Traditional Contact Lenses?

Traditional soft contact lenses are the most commonly prescribed option. They sit directly on the cornea, allowing oxygen to pass through while correcting vision for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or mild astigmatism. These lenses are lightweight, affordable, and easy to adapt to - making them a great choice for patients with healthy, regular-shaped corneas and no major eye surface issues. However, for patients with dry eye, irregular corneas, or conditions like keratoconus, traditional lenses may not provide the best comfort or stability.
 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are larger, gas-permeable lenses that rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) instead of the cornea. This design creates a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea, offering continuous hydration and a smooth optical surface.

Because of their advanced design, scleral lenses are often prescribed for patients with:

• Keratoconus or corneal irregularities

• Severe dry eye syndrome

• Post-surgical corneal changes

• High prescriptions that are difficult to correct with standard lenses

Scleral lenses are custom-made for each eye, which helps maximize both comfort and vision quality.
 

Comfort and Fit

While traditional lenses are easier to insert and remove, many patients with sensitive eyes find scleral lenses more comfortable once they adapt. The moisture chamber created by scleral lenses helps eliminate friction and dryness - something soft lenses can’t always achieve.

During a contact lens exam in Honolulu at 808 Eye Care, your optometrist will measure the shape of your cornea, evaluate your tear film, and discuss your visual goals. This allows us to determine whether a traditional or scleral lens will best meet your needs.
 

Which Lens Is Right for You?

The best choice depends on your eye health, comfort preferences, and visual demands. For patients with healthy eyes and mild prescriptions, traditional soft lenses remain an excellent option. For those with complex eye conditions or chronic dryness, scleral lenses can provide superior vision and all-day comfort.
 

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam in Honolulu

Both scleral and traditional contact lenses have their benefits - but the right option for you depends on your unique eye condition. Our eye care team takes the time to assess your vision, comfort, and lifestyle before recommending the best solution.

Schedule your contact lens exam at 808 Eye Care to discover the perfect fit for your eyes. Visit our office in Honolulu, Hawaii, or call (808) 949-9999 to book an appointment today.