Your First Scleral Lens Fitting in Fort Myers: What to Expect From Evaluation to Follow-Up

If traditional contact lenses haven't provided the comfort or clarity you need, scleral lenses may be an option. At Brooks Eye Care in Fort Myers, FL, we provide customized scleral lens fittings for patients with keratoconus, irregular corneas, severe dry eye, and other vision challenges. Understanding the fitting process can help you feel more prepared for your first appointment.

What Makes Scleral Lenses Different?

Scleral lenses are larger, gas-permeable contact lenses that rest on the white part of the eye, called the sclera. Unlike traditional contact lenses, they vault over the cornea, creating a fluid-filled space between the lens and the eye's surface.

This design can provide clearer, more stable vision for patients with irregular corneas while helping maintain moisture over the corneal surface. Because each person's eyes are different, scleral lenses require a specialized fitting process.

Step 1: Your Initial Scleral Lens Evaluation

Your first appointment at our Fort Myers office begins with a detailed evaluation of your eyes, vision, and contact lens history. We'll discuss your symptoms, previous lens experiences, and what you hope to improve.

During your evaluation, we may perform several assessments, including:

• Corneal measurements: Evaluating the shape and curvature of your cornea.

• Ocular surface examination: Checking for dryness, irritation, or irregularities that could affect lens wear.

• Vision testing: Determining your prescription and identifying visual challenges.

• Lens fitting assessment: Evaluating how a diagnostic scleral lens aligns with your eye.

• Comfort evaluation: Checking how the lens feels and whether adjustments may be necessary.

These findings help us determine the most appropriate lens design for your needs.

Step 2: Customizing Your Scleral Lenses

Once we complete your evaluation, we'll select or design lenses based on your eye measurements and visual requirements.

At Brooks Eye Care, Dr. Jordan Brooks has experience with advanced scleral lens designs, including freeform lenses developed using detailed measurements of the cornea and sclera.

We assess how each lens fits, how well it clears the cornea, and how effectively it corrects your vision. Some patients need additional adjustments before achieving an appropriate fit.

Step 3: Learning to Insert, Remove, and Care for Your Lenses

Before you begin wearing your new scleral lenses independently, we'll explain proper handling and maintenance.

Unlike standard soft contact lenses, scleral lenses must be filled with preservative-free sterile saline approved for scleral lens use before insertion. We'll review safe insertion and removal techniques, cleaning instructions, and recommended wearing schedules.

You'll also learn how to recognize signs of discomfort or irritation that require attention. Never expose your lenses to tap water, swim or shower while wearing them, or sleep in them unless specifically directed.

Step 4: Follow-Up Visits and Lens Adjustments

Follow-up appointments are an important part of the scleral lens fitting process. After you've worn your lenses, we'll evaluate their fit, assess your vision, and discuss your comfort throughout the day.

If you notice blurred vision, lens fogging, or discomfort, we may recommend adjustments. Some patients achieve a satisfactory fit quickly, while others require multiple visits.

Our goal is to help you achieve comfortable, functional vision while supporting your long-term eye health.

Schedule Your Scleral Lens Fitting in Fort Myers, FL

Interested in finding out whether scleral lenses are right for you? At Brooks Eye Care, we offer personalized specialty contact lens evaluations and fittings to address your unique vision needs. Contact Brooks Eye Care in Fort Myers, FL, at (239) 313-6011 to schedule your scleral lens consultation today.