Are you looking for scleral lenses in Sydney?
When it comes to scleral lens fitting, choosing the right provider is crucial for optimal care and long-term success. At Westmead Eyes Optometrists in Western Sydney, We have extensive experience fitting scleral lenses for complex corneal conditions such as keratoconus, corneal grafts or transplants, corneal scars, and severe dry eyes.
Our patients are referred to us throughout Sydney and NSW from both general optometrists and eye specialists for this specialty service. We also help patients who come to us after failing to achieve comfortable or stable vision with their current contact lenses, seeking a more effective solution.
NEW: If you have been been referred to us from Westmead Hospital Eye Clinic or any NSW public hospital (Sydney Eye Hospital, or Royal Prince Alfred Hospital), we are now able to provide basic scleral lenses starting from $1260 for one eye or $1860 for two eyes. This heavily discounted price represents our commitment to making advanced eye care more accessible to those who need it most.
What are scleral lenses?
Scleral contact lenses are large-diameter gas permeable (GP) contact lenses that rest on the white of the eye and not directly on the cornea (the clear white area). They are very comfortable for patients, as they vault over the entire ocular surface that has the highest amount of nerves. A scleral lens is actually very comfortable even the first time we put the lens on, so this is a great option for sensitive eyes or irregular corneas. They do not dislodge or pop out of the eye, which is a common problem with conventional corneal gas permeable lenses.
Scleral lenses are only fitted by a practitioner trained in this technology, and we are proud to offer the latest technology in scleral lens options. We have invested in and are fortunate to have access to accurate tools including anterior OCT, computerised corneal topography, and scleral profilometry (sMap3D) to design and precisely fit even the most complex cornea conditions. These technological advancements play a vital role in the customisation and effectiveness of scleral lenses.
Scleral lenses may offer clarity and comfort for patients who have been previously told they were not good candidates for contacts or who have been unsuccessful with other types of contact lenses. For many of our patients, a scleral lens is life changing, and when the need is there, a scleral lens can often solve problems that are unsolvable through any other means.
Who Are Scleral Lenses For?
Patients where a corneal transplant surgery is an option. With careful contact lens fitting most patients will not require a corneal transplant
- Keratoconus
- Keratoglobus
- Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
- Scarred corneas due to injury or disease
- Irregular or high astigmatism
- Failed or unsuccessful previous corneal surgery:
- Radial keratotomy
- Laser Refractive Surgery. (LASIK, LASEK, PRK)
- Corneal grafts/ transplants which do not have satisfactory vision.
Patients where a Scleral contact lens is indicated for corneal protection.
This includes:
- Severe dry eyes
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
- Graft vs Host disease (GvHD)
- Neurotrophic corneal disease
- Sjorgren’s syndrome
- Chemical and burn injuries
Patients who want superior optics and stable vision. They may be unsatisfied with their current contact lenses and/or glasses.
- Complicated prescriptions:
- High astigmatism
- High myopia/ hyperopia
- Multifocal contact lenses wearers who do not have comfortable vision
- Athletes to improve sports performance
For many of these patients, scleral lenses can significantly improve vision and comfort, even when other options have failed.
Why Choose Us?
The increasing availability of scleral lenses has unfortunately resulted in a decrease in the quality of care provided resulting in poor lens fits. We stand out from other providers by offering specialised expertise and advanced technology in scleral lens fitting. We understand that patients with complex corneal diseases require a higher level of attention, which may not be effectively met by general optometry providers who have limited experience in contact lens fitting or inadequate training and equipment.
Unlike non-specialty optometric business models, we prioritise patient education, training, and ongoing support. We recognise the importance of equipping patients with the knowledge and skills they need to safely handle scleral lenses and adapt to their use over the long term. We go the extra mile to ensure that patients with medical indications receive the comprehensive care they deserve.
When you choose us as scleral lens provider, you will develop a relationship with us for life. We are dedicated partners in your ocular health and overall well-being. With our extensive experience, you can trust that you are in the hands of professionals who truly care about your vision and quality of life.
How much are scleral lenses?
We charge a package fee from $2250 for two eyes, which includes all the consultations involved for the initial lens fitting process, one pair scleral lenses and a lens care kit to get you started. This will cover a basic set of scleral lenses that will improve your vision. Additional charges may apply for eyes which require more complex designs. One set of scleral lenses can typically last 2 years if they are well looked after. All scleral lens orders have a 90 day warranty to cover for any modifications required to the lens.
Remember, if you’re referred from Westmead Hospital Eye Clinic or a NSW public hospital, you can access our special offer with basic scleral lenses starting at $1860 for two eyes.
If you would simply like a trial to see if scleral lenses will benefit you, the charge is $195. This is our standard fee for all inital scleral lens consultations.
If you have private health insurance with extras cover — such as Medibank Private, BUPA, or others — part of the cost of the initial package or replacement lenses may be claimable.
In the event that your scleral lens is not effective and it needs to be discontinued within our 3 month warranty period, we offer a 50% credit of the lens costs towards another optical appliance. This amount will be given to you as a credit on your account at Westmead Eyes. The cost of our consultations and lens design fees are non refundable.
Why Are Scleral Lenses More Expensive?
Unlike standard contact lenses, scleral lenses are:
- Fully customised to your eye shape
- Designed using advanced corneal mapping
- Fitted over multiple visits to ensure precision
- Adjusted to maximise both vision and comfort
This level of customisation is what allows scleral lenses to achieve results that glasses and standard lenses cannot.
What Results Can You Expect?
Many patients experience:
- Significantly clearer vision
- Reduced glare and distortion
- Improved comfort compared to other lenses
- Greater confidence in daily activities
In many cases, scleral lenses can help avoid or delay the need for corneal transplant surgery.
What Does the Research Say?
Research supports scleral lenses as an effective form of visual rehabilitation for many people with keratoconus, irregular corneas and previous corneal surgery. They may also protect the eye surface and improve comfort in selected patients with severe dry eye. Results vary, and customised fitting and ongoing monitoring remain important.
Read the Scleral Lens ResearchNew to Keratoconus?
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with keratoconus and would like to understand the condition, progression, and treatment options, you can learn more about keratoconus here.
If you are thinking about scleral lenses in Sydney, give us a call on (02) 9635 8464 OR 04988 OPTOM or contact us here. Remember to book in a one hour specialty scleral lens consultation.
Further Resources
My Big Fat Scleral Lens is a patient support group on Facebook with members from all over the world who are wearing scleral lenses for a variety of complications.