Vision Therapy in St. Augustine

Are Scleral Contact Lenses Right for You?

(904) 824-0212

Scleral Lenses Candidates

Scleral lenses are custom-designed to offer remarkable visual acuity and comfort improvements for individuals with sensitive eyes or corneal irregularities. Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, creating an improved optical surface.

This design minimizes irritation to the cornea and provides exceptional comfort. Additionally, a reservoir of pure saline solution between the back surface of the lens and the front of the cornea ensures that the eye is consistently submerged in a liquid environment, promoting optimal eye health and comfort.

Scleral lenses are particularly well-suited for hard-to-fit eyes, such as individuals with keratoconus, astigmatism, or medium-high astigmatism that cannot be corrected comfortably with other contact lenses. They also offer the advantage of all-day hydration for comfortable wear.

smiling man with glasses


Are Scleral Lenses Superior to Traditional Gas-Permeable Lenses?

In terms of comfort, visual clarity, and stability, scleral lenses outperform small diameter rigid gas-permeable lenses. For individuals with corneal irregularities or heightened sensitivity, scleral lenses are often the preferred and sometimes the only viable option.

It's important to note that while scleral lenses offer numerous benefits, they may come at a higher cost compared to various other gas-permeable lenses, but may be covered by insurance in certain cases. The decision regarding which contact lens is best for your needs should be made in consultation with our team of experts.

Whether you're a first-time wearer with nearsightedness or have complex vision needs such as astigmatism, bifocals, or a distorted cornea, we are here to provide you with the most suitable solution.

Several factors determine whether you're a suitable candidate for scleral contact lenses:

  • Corneal Irregularities

    Scleral lenses are often prescribed for individuals with irregular corneas, such as keratoconus, corneal ectasia, or post-surgical complications. These lenses provide a smooth, uniform refractive surface, improving vision.

  • Dry Eye Syndrome

    Scleral lenses can be a game-changer for people struggling with dry eyes. The reservoir of saline solution between the lens and the eye helps keep the eye surface consistently moist, reducing discomfort and improving vision.

  • Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC

    GPC is a condition where the inner eyelid becomes inflamed due to contact lens irritation. Scleral lenses can be an excellent solution for GPC patients. Due to a customized edge profile, scleral lenses are shown to have less frictional impact on the sensitive inner eyelid.

  • Severe Astigmatism

    Scleral lenses can correct astigmatism effectively. The stable fit provided by these lenses ensures astigmatic patients enjoy clear and stable vision throughout the day.

  • Ocular Surface Disorders

    Individuals with ocular surface disorders like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or Sjögren's syndrome can benefit from the constant hydration and protection provided by scleral lenses.

  • Complex Prescriptions

    Scleral lenses are customizable to correct even the most complex vision problems, making them suitable for individuals with multifocal or high prescriptions.

  • Intolerance to Traditional Lenses

    If you've had discomfort or intolerance with traditional contact lenses, including soft or rigid gas-permeable lenses, scleral lenses may offer a more comfortable alternative.

Patient Reviews
4.8
239 Reviews
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- Jun. 27, 2025
Very thorough and trustworthy information given.
- Jun. 26, 2025
Brei and Morgan were so wonderful. They were all so accommodating and Dr.Mattox was absolutely amazi... ng.
- Jun. 26, 2025
Professional, efficient, friendly.
- Jun. 25, 2025
Fixed my glasses during their lunch break! Thanks Rowe
- Jun. 25, 2025
Friendly and professional
- Jun. 10, 2025
Great Service!
- Jun. 08, 2025
Nice people and great service. Appreciated how quickly I was able to get in for an appt.
- Jun. 03, 2025
Dr. Sierra Mattox and the sweet administrator that checked me out after my appointment were not only... amazing but were extremely informative not only answered all my questions but went over and beyond to make sure what I needed for further treatment was taken care of. Thank you ladies for a 10 star appointment:)
- May. 31, 2025
Great service & updated equipment all the staff helpful & Dr Maddox so nice to work with Glad i f... ound Rowe Family eye Care It’s a perfect fit for me Thank you all for the assistance with my eye care , glad I found you in St Augustine
- May. 26, 2025
Dr Mattox at Rowes’s eye care was wonderful. She was friendly and professional and was spot on wi... th my contact prescription.
- May. 23, 2025
I have nothing but great things to say about Rowe Family Eye Care! I was dealing with daily eye stra... in and headaches. After working with Dr. Brown, Patrice, and Kathy, those issues are gone. They were professional, efficient, and actually helped fix the problems. Highly recommend.
- May. 09, 2025
Our experience with the eye therapy specialist for ADHD has been absolutely incredible. The sessions... are engaging, supportive, and tailored perfectly to our child’s unique needs.
- May. 08, 2025
Very professional & always willing to help 😊
- May. 05, 2025
Popped in under very short notice as I had snapped off one of the nose pads on my glasses. Morgan no... t only repaired them in under five minutes but also adjusted the fitment of my frames to better fit my face. Was in and out in just ten minutes, thank you Morgan!
- Apr. 28, 2025
Very nice I would highly recommend
- Apr. 23, 2025
Wonderful staff ! Just would like to se more of a selection of glasses to choose from.
- Apr. 22, 2025
I've been coming here for years, and they are great. They even replaced my scratched lenses for free... even though it was a few days over my insurance period and gave me eye glass cleaner. It was so kind and showed me they care about their patients and are here to support you. It was also easy getting appointments and the office is clean and professional. They also have a great selection of eyeglasses. I got my favorite pair from here. I would definitely recommend coming here!
- Apr. 19, 2025
Rowe has a friendly, familial atmosphere. Efficient front desk staff. Optometry service is outstandi... ng- Nicholas is wonderful.
- Mar. 05, 2025
Ev
- Mar. 04, 2025
Sometimes it’s the simplest thing. Thank you, Nicholas, for silicone nose pads. I got 2 pairs of g... lasses and one was slipping down my nose. I tried sticking nose pads covers which didn’t help. Thanx, again, Nicholas.

View All 239 Reviews

Scleral Lenses in St. Augustine

Our optometry practice in St. Augustine

Photograph of Austin  Taylor
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Cigna
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • EyeMed

woman putting in contact

Consult with Our Scleral Lens Experts

The best way to determine your candidacy for scleral contact lenses is through a comprehensive eye examination and consultation with Rowe Family EyeCare. During this evaluation, your eye doctor will assess your eye health, vision prescription, and specific needs. They will also take precise measurements to ensure a proper fit.

If you've been struggling with vision issues or discomfort related to your current eyewear, scleral contact lenses could be the solution you've been looking for. 

Don't let your eye condition limit your quality of life; Schedule an appointment with Rowe Family EyeCare today and explore the benefits of scleral lenses and determine if you're a suitable candidate.

(904) 824-0212