What are scleral lenses?
Scleral lenses are specialized lenses designed to cover the entire cornea, the transparent, dome-shaped front part of the eye. The lenses create a tear-filled vault over the cornea, providing a protective barrier and a smooth optical surface that improves vision. They can also improve the appearance of disfiguring corneal conditions such as scarring.
Scleral lenses are typically made from rigid gas-permeable materials such as silicon acrylate or fluorosilicone acrylate. These materials are highly oxygen permeable, allowing oxygen to pass through the lens and reach the cornea, which is important for maintaining eye health.
Who should book: Individuals with keratoconus, severe dry eye, high astigmatism, post-surgical complications, pellucid marginal degeneration, corneal scars, or anyone who has failed with standard contact lenses.
Mapping your eye's terrain
We are the only clinic in Edmonton that uses the Eaglet-Eye Surface Profiler (ESP). The ESP is a profilometer that generates accurate 3D height maps of the eye's surface with incredible detail. It precisely maps every detail of the cornea, limbus, and large areas of the sclera. Your ESP custom-designed scleral lens is made just for your eyes.
Corneal topography creates a 3D map of the cornea's surface, identifying features like mountains and valleys to help diagnose and treat vision problems more accurately. The technology has unprecedented measuring accuracy, allowing for a custom fit that results in optimal comfort and vision.
Types of scleral lenses
Scleral lenses come in different types, each designed for specific needs:
- Mini-scleral lenses — smaller and comfortable to wear
- Large scleral lenses — maximum stability and visual acuity
- Hybrid scleral lenses — rigid centre with a soft outer skirt for both visual clarity and comfort
- Custom-designed scleral lenses — tailored to fit the unique shape of each eye, ideal for complex corneal conditions
- Scleral lenses for dry eye — provide relief by creating a fluid reservoir between the lens and the eye
OVITZ HOA-corrected scleral lenses
We offer OVITZ HOA-Corrected Scleral Lenses, a breakthrough option for patients who need clearer vision than traditional scleral lenses can provide. Using the advanced OVITZ xWave aberrometer, we take ultra-precise measurements of the eyes, including higher-order aberrations (HOAs) in the visual system.
These detailed measurements allow us to custom-design scleral lenses with integrated HOA correction. Patients often notice sharper, crisper vision, less glare and halos at night, and better clarity in dim or low-light settings.
Advanced scleral lens fitting
Advanced options are available for complicated eye conditions such as orbital trauma and patients with glaucoma surgeries. Scleral abnormalities like large pingueculas can also be fitted using advanced techniques.
EyePrint / EyeFit prosthetic
We are one of the only clinics in Alberta certified and trained to use EyePrintPRO, a scleral lens technology that involves obtaining a mold of the front surface of the eye. The ScanFitPRO, developed by EyePrint Prosthetics, uses special software with the Eaglet Eye's technology to quickly and accurately measure the eye, allowing our specialists to design lenses that perfectly fit each patient's unique eye shape.
Our specialists
Our scleral lens fittings are performed by Dr. Sam Dhaliwal and Dr. Jasmine Li, both trained in ocular disease and specialty contact lenses. We have developed strong relationships with various ophthalmologists and have established routines for treating complex eye health conditions.