Scleral vs. Soft Lenses: What’s the Difference, and Which Is Right for You?

Choosing the right contact lenses can make a significant difference in both your vision and overall comfort. At Eye Clinics of Seattle, we work with patients every day to help them understand the best lens options for their individual needs. Two of the most common types are soft contact lenses and scleral lenses.
 

Exploring Soft Contact Lenses

Soft contact lenses are made from flexible, water-absorbing materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the eye, making them a comfortable option for many people. These lenses conform easily to the shape of your eye and are typically recommended for individuals with standard vision correction needs. They are available in a variety of wear schedules, including daily, bi-weekly, and monthly options, making them convenient and easy to maintain. Soft lenses are often a great choice for those new to contact lenses or looking for a low-maintenance solution for everyday wear.
 

Benefits of Soft Lenses:

• Easy to get used to

• Great for everyday wear

• Available in a wide range of prescriptions

• Ideal for people with normal corneal shapes and no underlying eye conditions
   

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are larger, rigid gas-permeable contact lenses designed to rest on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera, rather than directly on the cornea. They create a fluid-filled space over the cornea, which can provide exceptional comfort and improved vision, especially for individuals with irregular corneas or advanced eye conditions. While they require a more detailed fitting process and an adjustment period, scleral lenses offer a highly customized and stable solution for complex vision needs.
 

Benefits of Scleral Lenses:

• Excellent for patients with keratoconus, severe dry eye, or post-surgical corneas

• More stable and less likely to move on the eye

• Can provide sharper, more consistent vision in complex cases
   

What to Expect During a Contact Lens Exam and Fitting

Whether you're new to contact lenses or considering a switch to a different lens type, a proper contact lens exam and fitting is essential for maintaining eye health and achieving clear, comfortable vision.
 

During your visit, we begin with a comprehensive eye exam to assess your overall eye health, determine your vision needs, and screen for any underlying conditions that may affect lens wear. Next, we perform corneal measurements to determine the appropriate lens size and curvature for your eyes, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.
 

We also evaluate your tear film to confirm that your eyes can support contact lenses without dryness or irritation. After these evaluations are finished, you'll take part in a trial fitting where you can try on different lenses to assess how they feel, how well they fit, and how clearly you can see with them.
 

If you’re new to contact lenses, we’ll guide you through lens training, teaching you how to properly insert, remove, and care for your lenses. Finally, our team will monitor how your eyes respond to the lenses and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible fit and performance.
 

Which Lens Is Right for You?

Finding the right contact lenses is a personal process that depends on your eye health, vision needs, and lifestyle. Whether you’re suited for soft lenses or scleral lenses, a proper exam and fitting can make all the difference in your comfort and clarity.
 

Schedule your eye exam at Eye Clinics of Seattle to explore your contact lens options. Contact our offices in Seattle, Washington, located in Queen Anne, Ballard, or Roosevelt, by calling (206) 282-8120 to book an appointment today.