For patients with dry eye or complex vision needs, scleral lenses can feel life-changing from the very first fit. At Total Eye Care Centre in Coquitlam, BC, we guide patients through a thorough scleral lens fitting process that is designed to improve comfort and vision, especially for those who have been challenged by conventional contact lenses or severe dry eye. If you are searching for an experienced optometrist near you, this step-by-step overview explains what will happen and why each step matters.
Initial Consultation and Medical History
Your fitting begins with a detailed consultation by our optometry team, where your ocular history, previous contact-lens experience, and symptoms are reviewed. Dry eye, corneal irregularities, previous surgeries, and medications are discussed so the fitting can be tailored to your needs. This information is used to then determine whether scleral lenses are an appropriate option and whether adjunct dry eye treatment should be started first.
Diagnostic Testing and Measurements
Advanced measurements are collected to map the surface of your eye with precision. Corneal topography and anterior segment imaging are commonly performed so that the curvature and scleral shape are understood, and these data are used to select an initial trial set. Accurate diagnostics ensure the lens vaults the cornea without touching, while the landing zone aligns comfortably on the sclera.
Trial Lens Fitting and Assessment
A trial lens is placed and allowed to settle, because scleral lenses are assessed after they have seated and fluid has redistributed. The optometrist evaluates:
- Central corneal clearance and vault, using fluorescein or OCT when necessary
- Limbal and peripheral clearance to avoid edge pressure
- Scleral alignment and rotational stability
- Visual acuity and over-refraction to refine prescription
Adjustments are made in real time, and multiple trial lenses may be tested until the ideal fit is achieved.
Ordering and Follow-Up
Once a custom scleral lens is selected, the final pair is ordered and carefully manufactured. After delivery, an adaptation period is expected, and follow-up visits are scheduled to confirm fit, assess ocular health, and fine-tune vision. Ongoing monitoring is essential because the ocular surface and lens interaction change over time.
Caring for Scleral Lenses and Concurrent Dry Eye Treatment
Proper cleaning, insertion, removal, and storage are taught during your visit, and specialized solutions are recommended. If dry eye is present, concurrent treatments are often prescribed so the ocular surface is optimized, which improves comfort and lens tolerance. Patients are coached on troubleshooting common issues and when to return for care.
Start Your Scleral Lens Journey
If you are interested in scleral lenses or need expert dry eye treatment in Coquitlam, BC, our optometrist team at Total Eye Care Centre can assess your suitability and guide you through a personalized fitting. Call Total Eye Care Centre today at (778) 285-6972 to schedule your contact lens exam and discover scleral lenses near you.