LASIK is often marketed as a permanent fix—but for some, the journey doesn’t end there. Post-surgery complications like corneal ectasia can lead to blurry, unstable vision that glasses and regular contacts just can’t correct. That’s where scleral lenses come in.
At Antoine Eye Care, we’ve worked with many patients who thought they had exhausted their options—until they discovered what a properly fit scleral lens could do for them. As Dr. Michael Antoine explains,
“These lenses can be life-changing. For many people with ectasia after LASIK, they provide the first real visual clarity they’ve had in years.”
Why Traditional Options Fall Short
Once the cornea becomes irregular due to ectasia, standard corrective lenses lose their effectiveness. Soft contacts conform to the eye’s surface, which means they follow the same distorted shape. Even rigid gas-permeable lenses, while better, are often too small to provide the stability or comfort that these patients need.
Scleral lenses are different. They vault over the entire cornea and rest on the white part of the eye, creating a smooth, optical surface. The space between the lens and the eye is filled with a saline solution that masks corneal irregularities and promotes comfort. The result? Sharper, more stable vision.
How Scleral Lenses Help Post-LASIK Ectasia
Scleral lenses are not just a vision aid—they’re a treatment strategy. Here’s what makes them so effective:
- Improved vision: The rigid surface eliminates the warping caused by the ectasia
- Enhanced comfort: The lens doesn't move around and the liquid cushion keeps the eye hydrated
- Protection for the cornea: It shields the fragile cornea from environmental exposure
- Custom design: Every lens is tailored to your unique eye shape
As Dr. Antoine notes, “It’s not uncommon for patients to walk in with ghosting and halos, and walk out of their fitting finally able to see street signs clearly again.”
What to Expect During a Fitting
Patients in St. Louis often ask us if scleral lenses are difficult to wear. The good news? Most people adapt quickly with the right support.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Evaluation: We perform detailed topography and imaging to map the corneal surface
- Trial Lens Application: A lens is placed on the eye to evaluate the initial fit and vision
- Custom Ordering: Using data from the exam, your lens is custom-built to your eye
- Training & Follow-Up: We teach you how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses—and follow up to ensure comfort and performance
Many patients have never worn contacts before, especially if LASIK “freed” them from glasses years ago. But with support from our team, even first-time wearers succeed.
Personalized Care That Makes a Difference
One reason patients trust Antoine Eye Care for specialty contact lenses is because we take the time to get it right. Dr. Antoine understands the urgency and anxiety that often accompany vision loss, especially after a procedure that was supposed to be the solution.
“We walk through every step with our patients. It’s not a rushed process, and that’s what makes it work,” he says. “We know what we’re doing, and we’ve helped a lot of people who thought their vision couldn’t get any better.”
Schedule Your Specialty Lens Consultation in St. Louis, Missouri
Vision problems after LASIK don’t mean you’re out of options. Scleral lenses can give you back the clarity and comfort you’ve been missing—and the experienced team at Antoine Eye Care is here to help.
Visit us at the St. Louis Galleria or call to book your fitting today. Better vision may just be a set of scleral lenses away.
FAQs
Q: Are scleral lenses painful to wear?
A: Not at all. In fact, most patients find them more comfortable than regular contacts because they don’t touch the sensitive corneal surface.
Q: Will insurance cover scleral lenses for post-LASIK ectasia?
A: Coverage varies, but our team can help determine if your plan includes medically necessary contacts.
Q: How long do scleral lenses last?
A: With proper care, scleral lenses typically last 1–2 years.
Q: Are they hard to insert and remove?
A: They take a little practice, but we provide complete training to help you master the process.
Q: Can scleral lenses stop ectasia from progressing?
A: While they don’t halt progression, they protect the cornea and dramatically improve vision and comfort.