Are Scleral Lenses the Right Choice for Keratoconus?

If you’re newly diagnosed with keratoconus and wondering what your next steps should be—you’re not alone.

For many patients, especially young professionals who rely on sharp vision every day, the decision to move forward with scleral lenses can feel overwhelming. You’ve likely heard about corneal cross-linking, rigid gas-permeable lenses, and even corneal transplants.

So how do you know what’s right for you?

At Vision on Park, we help patients through this decision-making process every single day—with clarity, compassion, and concierge-level care.

What Should Come First: Cross-Linking or Scleral Lenses?

Cross-linking is often the first recommendation for patients with progressive keratoconus. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that helps halt the progression of corneal thinning. If your vision is changing rapidly, especially in your 20s or 30s, cross-linking can help stabilize your cornea.

However, it’s important to note that cross-linking won’t improve vision clarity—only stability.

That’s where scleral lenses shine. These custom-designed lenses vault over the irregular cornea, creating a smooth optical surface and restoring crisp, comfortable vision—even in advanced cases.

Our approach? At Vision On Park, we often recommend cross-linking for stability, followed by scleral lenses for daily clarity.

Scleral Lenses vs. Glasses or Hard Contacts: What’s the Difference?

If you're wondering how scleral lenses stack up against glasses or traditional hard lenses, here’s a quick comparison.

Scleral Lens Benefits

• Unmatched Comfort: Rests on the sclera (white of the eye), avoiding corneal irritation.
• Sharp, Stable Vision: Liquid reservoir smooths out corneal irregularities.
• All-Day Wear: Most patients enjoy 8–12 hours of comfortable use.
• Secure Fit: No unexpected “pop-outs” like with smaller hard lenses.

Things to Consider

• Fitting requires time, expertise, and multiple visits.
• Initial costs are higher than standard lenses but worth the investment for long-term vision and comfort.

What If I Invest and Can’t Tolerate the Lenses?

A common concern—and one we hear often.

At Vision on Park, our process is designed to minimize risk and maximize comfort:

• We charge a non-refundable fitting fee (usually $500–$1500), which includes trial lenses, scans, and follow-ups.

• If you can't tolerate the lenses, you receive a refund for the lenses, minus the fitting fee.

Good news: Our success rate is extremely high. In over a decade of fitting lenses, Dr. Tejal Rana has had only one patient unable to continue due to a rare material allergy.

Are There Long-Term Risks with Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are safe for long-term wear when used properly. Just like any contact lens, they’re considered a medical device and require proper hygiene and handling.

Key care tips:

• Clean and disinfect daily
• Fill with preservative-free saline
• Never sleep with lenses in
• Wash hands before inserting or removing lenses

With proper use, scleral lenses hydrate the cornea and protect against further damage—making them an ideal choice for keratoconus.

Why Choose Vision on Park?

At Vision on Park, we don’t just fit lenses—we personalize every aspect of your care. Dr. Rana’s expertise in specialty contact lenses ensures a precision-guided experience, and our boutique clinic in Manhattan’s Murray Hill is designed for comfort, privacy, and excellence.

You’re never rushed or treated like just another patient. You’re given the time, education, and support you deserve—whether you're considering your first pair of scleral lenses or exploring advanced treatment options.

Ready to Explore Scleral Lenses?

Whether you're newly diagnosed or searching for more comfort and clarity, we’re ready to help.

Visit us today at 77 Park Avenue, Suite 1-D, New York City, NY, or book your appointment online.