Patients with a history of eye cancer often face complex vision challenges that go far beyond their initial diagnosis. Treatments such as cryotherapy, radiation, and surgery can save lives, but they may also leave behind corneal scarring, irregular eye surfaces, and other changes that make standard glasses or contact lenses ineffective. For patients in Las Vegas dealing with these complications, scleral contact lenses and custom prosthetic devices can offer a meaningful improvement in both vision and quality of life.
Scleral melanoma is a rare form of cancer that develops on the sclera, the white outer wall of the eye. Treatment options such as cryotherapy, which uses extreme cold to destroy cancer cells, can successfully eliminate the tumor. However, these treatments may alter the shape and surface of the eye, creating an irregular landscape that is difficult to correct with conventional lenses.
Many patients with eye cancer also have additional eye conditions that further complicate their vision. Cataracts, glaucoma, corneal scarring from prior infections, and eyelid changes such as ptosis, a drooping of the upper eyelid, are common in patients who have undergone multiple eye procedures. Each of these conditions adds a layer of complexity that requires specialized expertise to manage effectively.
Scleral contact lenses are uniquely suited for patients with complicated ocular histories because they vault completely over the cornea without touching it. The lens rests on the sclera and creates a smooth optical surface filled with preservative-free saline, which compensates for corneal irregularities such as scars, thinning, or distortion.
For patients whose eyes have been altered by cancer treatment, surgery, or other conditions, this design means the scleral lens can deliver clear, stable vision regardless of what the underlying corneal surface looks like. Patients who may have been told that nothing more could be done for their vision are often surprised by the improvement a scleral lens can provide.
In the most complex cases, where the eye surface is highly irregular due to cancer treatment, surgical scarring, or other factors, a standard scleral lens design may not achieve the best possible fit. The EyePrintPro system solves this problem by creating a completely custom lens based on an impression of the patient’s actual eye surface.
The process involves taking a physical mold of the entire front surface of the eye, similar to how a dentist takes an impression for a crown. This mold is then scanned and used to design and fabricate a scleral lens that matches every contour of the individual eye. The result is a lens with exceptional comfort and stability, even on eyes with significant surface irregularities.
Patients who receive EyePrintPro lenses often experience dramatic vision improvements. It is not uncommon for a patient to go from 20/100 with blurry, distorted vision to 20/25 with sharp, clear sight after being fitted with a custom device.
Multiple eye surgeries can sometimes lead to ptosis, a condition where the upper eyelid droops and partially covers the pupil. This can affect both vision and the symmetry of the eyes. While scleral lenses do not directly treat ptosis, your doctor may discuss non-surgical options such as prescription eye drops that can help lift a mildly drooping eyelid and improve the overall appearance and function of the eye.
If you have undergone treatment for eye cancer or any condition that has left you with compromised vision and an irregular eye surface, a specialty contact lens consultation can help determine whether a scleral lens or custom prosthetic device may improve your vision. It is important to work with a provider who has specific experience with complex cases, as the fitting process requires advanced diagnostic equipment and extensive clinical expertise.
Check out her before and after photos for a non-surgical eyelid lift.
If you experience any sudden changes in vision, new eye pain, flashing lights, or new floaters, seek immediate eye care, as these symptoms can indicate serious conditions that require urgent evaluation.
At Insight Vision Optometry, Las Vegas, Dr. Stephanie Woo, OD, FAAO, FSLS, is the only practitioner in Nevada certified to fit EyePrintPro custom prosthetic lenses and has managed over 2,000 specialty contact lens patients. Dr. Nathan Schramm, OD, FSLS, FBCLA, and Dr. Thanh Mai, OD, FSLS, bring additional expertise in scleral lenses and complex corneal conditions. To schedule a specialty lens consultation, call 702-747-4070 or visit www.insightvisionlv.com.
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