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A scleral lens is a large type of contact lens that rests on the sclera and creates a tear-filled vault over the cornea. Scleral lenses are designed to treat a variety of eye conditions which do not respond to other forms of treatment.

Modern scleral lenses are made of a highly oxygen permeable polymer. They are also unique in their design in that they fit onto and are supported by the sclera, the white portion of the eye. The cause of this unique positioning is usually relevant to a specific patient, whose cornea may be too sensitive to support the lens directly. In comparison to regular contact lenses, scleral lenses bulge outward considerably more. The space between the cornea and the lens is filled with artificial tears. The liquid, which is contained in a thin elastic reservoir, conforms to the irregularities of the deformed cornea, allowing vision to be restored comfortably.

Scleral lenses may be used to correct any one of a growing number of disorders or injuries to the eye, such as keratoconus, corneal ectasia, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Sjogren's Syndrome, aniridia and pellucid degeneration. Injuries to the eye such as surgical complications, distorted corneal implants, as well as chemical and burn injuries also may be treated by the use of scleral lenses.

Special effect scleral lenses have also been used to produce eerie eye effects in films, such as the whited-out eyes of the monsters in Evil Dead, or blacked-out eyes in Underworld and Underworld: Evolution. These lenses tend to be uncomfortable and sometimes impede the actors' vision, but the visual effects produced can be striking. The lenses cost around $300, are custom-made to fit the wearer's eyes and can also be custom-painted, although most companies only sell lenses with a pre-designed look. There are many different designs available, from standard black lenses to flame-effect eyes, as well as a lens that makes the whole eye white. However, the wearer is unable to see anything while the latter variety of lens is worn. If looked after, the lenses can be kept for around one year. It is recommended that they be worn for a maximum of 5-6 hours at a time, and only occasionally.

• Scleral lenses

Special effect Scleral Lenses

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