The influence of limbal and scleral shape on scleral lens design

Purpose

To summarize the research findings on the ocular surface profile, to provide a definition and a classification of the corneoscleral shape, and to offer guidelines in selecting scleral lens design.

Methods

The definition of rotational symmetry and rotational asymmetry was inquired and PubMed searches were conducted.

Results

The better understanding of the scleral contact lens comportment on the eye and the introduction of new diagnostic instruments to measure the anterior ocular surface have led to improve comprehension of corneoscleral contour formulating new scleral lens designs. The scleral lens landing zone is influenced by corneoscleral profile which may be rotationally symmetric and rotationally asymmetric. Corneal sagittal height, limbal shape, corneoscleral junction profile, corneal, limbal, and conjunctival angles, and scleral shape should be taken in consideration to prevent and manage fitting problems, such as air bubble formation, midday fogging, localized blanching, impingement, conjunctival prolapse, lens decentration, lens flexure, and to increase comfort, wearing time, overall satisfaction, and visual quality.

Conclusion

Corneoscleral shape may be considered rotationally symmetric including spherical, aspherical and toric profiles, and rotationally asymmetric including regular and irregular quadrants profiles. Each ocular surface contour requires a different landing zone design for an optimal fitting, vaulting properly over the cornea and limbus, and ideal alignment on the sclera. Further studies are still necessary to clarify many aspects of scleral lenses which are little known yet.