The Unseen Story: The Remarkable History of Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses, a marvel of modern optometry, hold a fascinating chapter in the history of vision correction. Today, they stand as a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of better vision. But to appreciate their current sophistication, we must first delve into their rich history.

The journey of scleral lenses began in the 19th century. In 1887, Adolf Eugen Fick, often regarded as the Father of Contact Lenses, made one of the earliest known attempts to create and wear a scleral contact lens. These initial designs were large, cumbersome, and covered the entire scleral surface of the eye. They were made from blown glass, a far cry from the materials we use today, but they set the foundation for what was to come.

The early scleral lenses were primarily “apical clearance” or “fluid-filled,” used predominantly for managing irregularly shaped corneas. This was a significant advancement, as it provided a new solution for those who had previously found little relief in vision correction. By the 1930s, scleral designs evolved into “fluidless” lenses, primarily used for correcting more regular refractive errors. These lenses did not require a “filling” solution; instead, they utilized the patient’s own tear film.

The use of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) in the 1940s to 1960s marked another pivotal point in scleral lens development. This material made the lenses more accessible and comfortable for wearers. However, the search for the perfect lens solution was still ongoing. Practitioners experimented with various ingredients to find the right balance that would extend wear time and reduce discomfort. This experimentation included the use of saline, baking soda solutions, and even more unconventional substances like glycerine, egg white, and sea water.

The history of scleral lenses is also deeply intertwined with the development of contact lens solutions. In 1827, John Hershel theorized the necessity of a transparent gelatin to form a liquid lens between the lens and the cornea. By the 1950s, premeasured sodium bicarbonate tablets dissolved in physiologic saline solution became commercially available, a significant step in standardizing lens care.

Fast forward to today, and scleral lenses are at the forefront of custom contact lens technology. They are especially beneficial for individuals with keratoconus, ocular surface disease, or those who have experienced challenges with standard contact lenses. The modern scleral lens vaults over the cornea, resting on the sclera, and creates a tear reservoir that provides unmatched comfort and visual clarity.

At Compton Eye Associates, we embrace the legacy and advancements of scleral lenses. Our expert team is dedicated to finding the perfect fit for each individual, ensuring maximum comfort and the best possible vision. Whether you have a complex prescription or need a more comfortable lens option, scleral lenses might be the solution you’ve been seeking.

Your journey towards clearer vision is a call or click away. Don’t let eye conditions limit your potential. Reach out to us at 800-936-0036 or schedule an appointment with Compton Eye Associates. Discover the difference that a pair of well-fitted scleral lenses can make in your life. Let us help you see the world through a clearer, more comfortable lens – your eyes deserve nothing less.