Scleral Lens Care: Cleaning, Storage, and Follow-Ups

Scleral lenses can provide clearer vision and improved comfort for patients with dry eyes, keratoconus, or irregular corneas. However, proper care is essential for keeping these specialty contact lenses clean, comfortable, and safe to wear. At Van Alstyne Eye Care, we help patients in Van Alstyne, TX understand how to maintain their scleral lenses and recognize when adjustments may be needed.

How to Clean Your Scleral Lenses Properly

Unlike traditional soft contact lenses, scleral lenses require specific cleaning and handling techniques. Following the recommended routine helps remove deposits, reduce irritation, and lower the risk of eye infections.

When cleaning your scleral lenses, remember these important steps:

• Wash and dry your hands: Always use soap and thoroughly dry your hands before handling your lenses.

• Use approved cleaning solutions: Clean your lenses with the products recommended by our eye care team.

• Follow disinfection instructions: Use the appropriate disinfecting solution and follow its required soaking time.

• Avoid tap water: Never rinse or store scleral lenses in tap water, bottled water, or homemade saline.

• Use preservative-free saline for insertion: Fill the lens bowl with the recommended sterile, preservative-free saline before placing the lens on your eye.

• Inspect your lenses: Check for debris, cracks, or damage before each use.

Proper scleral lens cleaning helps maintain lens clarity while supporting your overall eye health.

Best Practices for Scleral Lens Storage

Correct storage is just as important as cleaning. Scleral lenses should be disinfected and stored according to the instructions for your prescribed lens care system.

Use a clean contact lens case designed for your lenses and recommended solution. Replace the case regularly, and never reuse old disinfecting solution or top it off with fresh solution.

If you use a hydrogen peroxide cleaning system, allow the full neutralization process to finish before handling or inserting your lenses. Never apply unneutralized peroxide directly to your eyes.

For patients in Van Alstyne who wear scleral lenses daily, developing a consistent cleaning and storage routine can help prevent unnecessary complications.

Why Scleral Lens Follow-Up Appointments Matter

Even when your scleral lenses feel comfortable, regular follow-up appointments remain important. Over time, changes in your eyes or lens condition may affect comfort, fit, and visual clarity.

During scleral lens follow-ups at our Van Alstyne office, we can evaluate how your lenses fit, assess your corneal health, and check for signs of irritation or excessive lens deposits.

We may also review your cleaning routine and recommend adjustments when necessary. These visits help us identify potential concerns before they interfere with your daily lens wear.

When to Contact Your Eye Doctor

Occasional lens awareness may occur, but persistent discomfort should never be ignored. If you experience redness, pain, light sensitivity, or sudden changes in vision, remove your lenses and contact our office promptly. Significant pain or vision changes require urgent evaluation.

Cloudy vision, frequent lens fogging, or difficulty removing your lenses may also indicate that your fit or care routine needs attention.

At Van Alstyne Eye Care, we want our patients to feel confident caring for their specialty contact lenses. If you need guidance with scleral lens cleaning, storage, or follow-up care, contact Van Alstyne Eye Care in Van Alstyne, TX, at (903) 482-0090 to schedule an appointment.