Scleral Lens Fitting Treatment in Rancho Santa Margarita, California
Scleral Lens Fitting — At a Glance
Severity & Type
When to See a Doctor
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam if you experience persistent symptoms.
Key Symptoms
- 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
Treatment Options
- Custom Scleral Contact Lens Fitting
- Scleral Ortho-K (Overnight Reshaping Lenses)
- Corneal Topography-Guided Lens Design
- Medical Insurance Prior Authorization
- Insertion/Removal Training
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.
Rancho Santa Margarita families should know that scleral lens fitting can affect patients of all ages. Our practice provides age-appropriate evaluation and treatment, with clear explanations that help every family member understand the care plan.
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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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?
Parents and families in Rancho Santa Margarita should watch for these symptoms in both children and adults, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes:
- 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?
We work with Rancho Santa Margarita families to select treatments that fit both the patient's needs and the family's schedule, with clear instructions parents and patients can follow at home:
Standard Care vs. Specialized Treatment for Scleral Lens Fitting
| Aspect | Standard Approach | Specialized Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Position | Rests on the cornea | Vaults over cornea, rests on sclera |
| Dry Eye | Worsens tear film instability | Fluid reservoir hydrates cornea all day |
| Irregular Corneas | Cannot correct keratoconus or post-surgical irregularity | Creates smooth optical surface over any shape |
| Wearing Time | 8-10 hours (decreasing comfort) | 12-16 hours with consistent comfort |
| Customization | Limited parameter adjustments | Fully custom design for each cornea |
Scleral Lens Fitting FAQs for Rancho Santa Margarita Patients
Common questions from Rancho Santa Margarita patients about our eye care services
Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182
Scleral Lens Fitting Care for Rancho Santa Margarita Residents
Rancho Santa Margarita families are discovering scleral lenses for a wide age range — teenagers with keratoconus, parents who had LASIK complications, and grandparents managing severe dry eye. Our practice provides scleral fitting for patients from adolescence onward. We make the process comfortable and teach insertion techniques in a calm, patient-paced environment.
About Rancho Santa Margarita
Master-planned foothill community with excellent schools and outdoor recreation
Population: 48,000+
Languages Spoken in Rancho Santa Margarita
Our practice serves the diverse Rancho Santa Margarita community. We provide care to patients who speak:
Eye Health Priorities for Rancho Santa Margarita
- Pediatric eye exams and vision screening
- Myopia control and management
- Sports vision for young athletes
- Digital eye strain from screens
- Learning-related vision problems
Conveniently Located Near Rancho Santa Margarita Landmarks
Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Rancho Santa Margarita patients living near:
Getting to Our Office from Rancho Santa Margarita
Rancho Santa Margarita patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 241 Toll Road in approximately 35 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.
801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get DirectionsRancho Santa Margarita Neighborhoods We Serve
- Dove Canyon
- Robinson Ranch
- Tijeras Creek
- Walden
Zip codes: 92688
Why Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita
Open Monday through Friday 9 AM – 6 PM with easy access from Rancho Santa Margarita and surrounding communities.
Your Scleral Lens Fitting Specialist in Rancho Santa Margarita
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.
Patient Stories from Rancho Santa Margarita
See why your neighbors in Rancho Santa Margarita 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."
Comprehensive Exam
"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."
Schedule Your Scleral Lens Fitting Consultation
Expert diagnosis and treatment for Rancho Santa Margarita and Orange County residents.