Specialty & Scleral Contact Lenses
Not all eyes are the same, and not all contact lenses work for every patient. For individuals with corneal irregularities, chronic dry eye, or certain eye conditions, standard soft contact lenses may not provide clear, comfortable vision. That’s where specialty contact lenses come in.
At Coachella Valley Optometry, we specialize in fitting custom contact lenses for patients in Indio, Coachella, Cathedral City, and Palm Springs. These advanced lenses are designed to provide sharper vision and greater comfort for patients who cannot wear standard lenses.
Who Needs Specialty Contact Lenses?
Specialty contact lenses are ideal for patients who:
- Have keratoconus (a progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea)
- Have corneal scarring or irregularities
- Struggle with dry eye syndrome
- Have strabismus (eye misalignment)
- Have suffered an eye injury
- Have peripheral corneal thinning disorders
- Are intolerant to standard contact lenses
Our doctors will evaluate your unique needs and recommend the best specialty lens option for your eyes.
Types of Specialty Contact Lenses
Rigid Gas-Permeable (RGP) Lenses
RGP lenses are small, firm lenses that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. They provide sharper vision than standard soft lenses and are often recommended for patients with corneal abnormalities or dry eye. Their rigid design helps the cornea maintain its shape, improving vision quality.
Scleral Contact Lenses
Scleral lenses are much larger than standard contacts and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye) rather than the cornea. These lenses vault over the cornea, creating a tear-filled space that keeps the eyes hydrated while correcting vision. Scleral lenses are especially beneficial for patients with keratoconus, corneal scarring, or severe dry eye.
Limbal Fit Contact Lenses
Limbal lenses are mid-sized, falling between RGP and scleral lenses in diameter. Their larger design increases stability on the eye and reduces interference with the eyelids, offering both comfort and clarity.
Hybrid Contact Lenses
Hybrid lenses combine the sharp optics of an RGP lens with the comfort of a soft lens. They feature a rigid center for crisp vision and a soft outer skirt for improved comfort. Hybrid lenses are a good option for patients who need the clarity of an RGP lens but want the feel of a soft lens.
Benefits of Specialty Lenses
- Improved comfort for patients with irregular corneas or dry eyes
- Clearer, sharper vision compared to standard contacts
- Customized fit designed specifically for each patient’s eyes
- Expanded options for patients who have struggled with traditional lenses
Frequently Asked Questions
Are specialty lenses harder to wear than regular contacts?
Not necessarily. While they may take some adjustment, most patients adapt quickly and often find them more comfortable than standard lenses
Do scleral lenses hurt?
No. Because they rest on the sclera instead of the cornea, most patients actually find scleral lenses very comfortable
How do I know if I need specialty lenses?
A comprehensive contact lens exam will determine whether standard lenses will work for you or if a specialty design is needed
Schedule a Specialty Contact Lens Fitting
If you’ve struggled with glasses or standard contacts, specialty contact lenses may be the solution. At Coachella Valley Optometry, our doctors provide personalized fittings for scleral, RGP, hybrid, and limbal lenses to help you see clearly and comfortably.
Schedule your specialty contact lens exam today at our offices in Indio, Coachella, Cathedral City, or Palm Springs, CA.
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