Scleral Lenses, Keratoconus, & Corneal Change - Takeaways - MDSpire

Scleral Lenses, Keratoconus, & Corneal Change

Explore the implications of scleral lens wear on corneal changes and visual acuity in keratoconus patients, highlighting critical findings from a year-long study.

  • By

  • Melissa Barnett, OD, FAAO, FSLS

  • January 1, 2026

  • 5 min

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  • 1

    Scleral lenses induce mild corneal edema of about 2% in healthy eyes, but may cause epithelial and stromal edema in those with reduced endothelial cell density.

  • 2

    In a study, keratoconus patients wearing scleral lenses for one year showed significant changes in corneal thickness and curvature, differing between those with and without ICRS.

  • 3

    The KC-ICRS group experienced a 3.98% increase in superior corneal thickness, while the KC group showed no significant changes in corneal thickness over the same period.

  • 4

    Long-term scleral lens wear resulted in anterior corneal flattening and region-specific curvature alterations, but did not adversely affect visual acuity in either group.

  • 5

    The study emphasizes the need for individualized fitting and monitoring of corneal topography to enhance patient satisfaction and manage potential visual changes.

Original Source(s)

Scleral Lenses, Keratoconus, & Corneal Change

  • by Melissa Barnett, OD, FAAO, FSLS

  • January 1, 2026

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