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Specialty Contact Lenses·Newport Coast, Orange County

Scleral Lens Fitting Treatment in Newport Coast, California

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. · Updated February 2026

Scleral contact lenses are large-diameter specialty lenses that vault completely over the irregular cornea, creating a fluid-filled reservoir that corrects vision even when glasses and standard contacts fail. Ideal for keratoconus, post-LASIK complications, radial keratotomy (RK), severe dry eye, irregular astigmatism, and post-corneal transplant patients. Dr. Bonakdar has 35+ years and 500+ scleral fittings.

Newport Coast patients with scleral lens fitting have access to our complete suite of advanced diagnostics, enabling precise characterization of your condition and tailored treatment planning.

Dr. Bonakdar on Scleral Lens Fitting

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert scleral lens fitting diagnosis and treatment for patients in Newport Coast and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.

What is scleral lens fitting?

Scleral lens fitting is a specialty eye care process where an eye doctor designs large-diameter contact lenses that rest on the white part of the eye, vaulting completely over the cornea. The process involves mapping the corneal shape and precisely customizing the lens to create clear, comfortable vision for conditions like keratoconus, dry eye, and post-surgical complications.

How long does it take to get fitted for scleral lenses?

Scleral lens fitting typically takes 2 to 3 appointments over 2 to 4 weeks. The first appointment measures the eye, the second involves trial lens fitting and adjustments, and the final visit confirms the prescription. An experienced fitter can often complete the process more quickly than average.

Who needs specialty scleral lens fitting?

Scleral lens fitting is for patients whose corneas cannot be adequately corrected with glasses or regular contact lenses. This includes people with keratoconus, severe dry eye, post-LASIK complications, radial keratotomy problems, corneal scarring, and irregular astigmatism from any cause.

Does insurance cover scleral lens fitting?

Scleral lenses are often covered under medical insurance rather than vision insurance, especially when they are prescribed for a medical condition like keratoconus or post-surgical complications. Coverage varies by plan. Your eye doctor's office can submit a prior authorization to determine your specific benefits.

What are the symptoms of Scleral Lens Fitting?

Newport Coast residents who value peak visual performance should be alert to even subtle changes—the following symptoms warrant professional evaluation:

  • Vision not fully correctable with glasses or standard contacts
  • Irregular astigmatism causing distorted or ghosted images
  • Eye pain or discomfort from ill-fitting standard lenses
  • Fluctuating vision throughout the day
  • Chronic dry eye despite drops and treatments
  • Post-surgical vision changes that glasses cannot correct

What happens if scleral lens fitting is not treated?

Without proper diagnosis and treatment, scleral lens fitting can lead to:

  • Continued poor vision with ill-fitting standard lenses
  • Ongoing discomfort and dry eye from lenses that don't fit the cornea
  • Progressive corneal damage from poorly fitting rigid lenses
  • Inability to work, drive, or perform daily activities requiring clear vision
  • Reduced quality of life from uncorrected post-surgical complications
  • Unnecessary acceptance of vision that can be significantly improved

How is Scleral Lens Fitting treated?

Newport Coast patients have access to the full range of treatment options, including the most advanced technologies and premium solutions available:

Custom Scleral Contact Lens Fitting
Scleral Ortho-K (Overnight Reshaping Lenses)
Corneal Topography-Guided Lens Design
Medical Insurance Prior Authorization
Insertion/Removal Training
Follow-up Monitoring & Adjustments

Standard Care vs. Specialized Treatment for Scleral Lens Fitting

AspectStandard ApproachSpecialized Treatment
Lens PositionRests on the corneaVaults over cornea, rests on sclera
Dry EyeWorsens tear film instabilityFluid reservoir hydrates cornea all day
Irregular CorneasCannot correct keratoconus or post-surgical irregularityCreates smooth optical surface over any shape
Wearing Time8-10 hours (decreasing comfort)12-16 hours with consistent comfort
CustomizationLimited parameter adjustmentsFully custom design for each cornea

Scleral Lens Fitting FAQs for Newport Coast Patients

Common questions from Newport Coast patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose scleral lens fitting using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. Newport Coast patients benefit from our full suite of premium diagnostics, including wavefront analysis and widefield imaging, for the most comprehensive evaluation available.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for scleral lens fitting including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Newport Coast patients have access to premium treatment options including the latest lens technologies and advanced therapeutic procedures available in Orange County.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Newport Coast patients enjoy our attentive scheduling with dedicated appointment blocks and minimal waiting, respecting your time from arrival to departure.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for scleral lens fitting diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.
Yes. Dr. Alexander Bonakdar has fitted specialty contact lenses for over 35 years and has completed 500+ scleral lens fittings. Newport Coast patients are referred to our practice from UCI Medical Center and CHOC specifically for complex scleral lens cases that other practitioners cannot resolve.
Scleral lenses are prescribed for Newport Coast patients with keratoconus, post-LASIK or RK complications, severe dry eye, irregular astigmatism, corneal scarring, or corneal transplant recovery. They are the specialty lens of choice when standard contact lenses no longer work.

Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182

Scleral Lens Fitting Care for Newport Coast Residents

Newport Coast patients expect the best outcomes and the most advanced technology. Our scleral lens program uses premium scleral designs — including ultra-large diameter and customized optical surfaces — fitted with high-definition topography mapping. For patients who want glasses-free daytime vision, our scleral ortho-K program provides overnight reshaping using the same precision approach.

About Newport Coast

Ultra-luxury coastal community with world-class amenities and ocean views

Population: 10,000+

Ultra-affluent residentsExecutivesRetireesInternational residents

Languages Spoken in Newport Coast

Our practice serves the diverse Newport Coast community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishMandarinFarsiSpanish

Eye Health Priorities for Newport Coast

  • LASIK and refractive surgery consultations
  • Premium and designer eyewear fitting
  • Advanced contact lens options
  • Cosmetic and aesthetic considerations
  • Executive eye health programs

Conveniently Located Near Newport Coast Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Newport Coast patients living near:

Crystal Cove State Park
Pelican Hill Golf Club
Resort at Pelican Hill
Crystal Cove Historic District
Newport Coast Shopping Center

Getting to Our Office from Newport Coast

Drive Time
20 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
10.8 mi

Newport Coast patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 20 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get Directions

Newport Coast Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Crystal Cove
  • Pelican Hill
  • Ridge Park

Zip codes: 92657

Why Newport Coast Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Scleral Lens Fitting

35+ Years of Experience

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar has served Orange County since 1991, with extensive experience treating scleral lens fitting.

Advanced Diagnostics

OCT imaging, corneal topography, visual field testing, and retinal photography for precise diagnosis.

Insurance Accepted

VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, Medi-Cal, and most major vision and medical insurance plans.

Convenient for Newport Coast

Open Monday through Friday 9 AM – 6 PM with easy access from Newport Coast and surrounding communities.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Scleral Lens Fitting Specialist in Newport Coast

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating scleral lens fitting and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsBascom Palmer
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from Newport Coast

See why your neighbors in Newport Coast trust us with their vision.

Comprehensive Exam

"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."

emily garcia
Santa Ana, CA

Comprehensive Exam

"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."

Eduardo arias
Santa Ana, CA

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Expert diagnosis and treatment for Newport Coast and Orange County residents.