Scleral Lenses vs RGP and KeraSoft Lenses: What’s Best for Keratoconus?

Written By Mark Paul Paroli

Keratoconus is a progressive condition where the cornea becomes thinner and more cone-shaped over time. This leads to blurred, distorted vision that often can’t be corrected with regular eyeglasses. Fortunately, advanced contact lens options offer excellent visual outcomes and comfort, even in moderate to advanced cases.

Let’s explore three of the most common lens options used to manage keratoconus: RGP lenses, KeraSoft lenses, and Scleral lenses.

1.Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

Overview:
RGP lenses are small, firm lenses that rest directly on the cornea. They provide excellent vision by creating a smooth surface over the irregular cornea.

Advantages:

  • Crisp, high-quality vision

  • Good oxygen permeability

  • Cost-effective compared to other specialty lenses

Disadvantages:

  • It can feel uncomfortable, especially for first-time wearers

  • May dislodge with blinking or physical activity

  • Less suitable for highly irregular or advanced corneas

Recommended for:
Early to moderate keratoconus with minimal corneal distortion.

2. KeraSoft Lenses

Overview:
KeraSoft lenses are custom soft contact lenses made specifically for irregular corneas like those with keratoconus. They offer the comfort of soft lenses with tailored optics for better vision.

Advantages:

  • High comfort, soft lens feel

  • Stable fit with less lens movement

  • Suitable for daily wear

  • High oxygen permeability

Disadvantages:

  • May not provide the same level of visual clarity as rigid lenses

  • Limited correction for advanced keratoconus

  • More expensive than standard soft lenses

Recommended for:
Mild to moderate keratoconus, especially for patients with low lens tolerance.

3. Scleral Lenses

Overview:
Scleral lenses are large-diameter rigid lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). They trap a fluid reservoir beneath the lens, which masks corneal irregularity and keeps the eye hydrated.

Advantages:

  • Outstanding comfort and stability

  • Superior vision correction, even for advanced keratoconus

  • Excellent for patients with dry eye or corneal scarring

  • Minimal lens movement, ideal for active patients

Disadvantages:

  • Higher cost

  • Requires more expertise for fitting and follow-up

  • Slightly more complex handling compared to smaller lenses

Recommended for:
Moderate to advanced keratoconus, especially when other lenses fail.

Summary Table for RGP Lenses, Kerasoft Lenses, and Scleral Lenses

Which Lens Should You Choose?

There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach in keratoconus management. The right lens depends on the shape of your cornea, your visual goals, comfort preferences, and lifestyle.

At Soliman Paroli Optical – San Fernando Branch, we provide expert evaluation and advanced fitting of RGP, KeraSoft, and Scleral lenses tailored to your needs. Using topography, anterior OCT, and clinical experience, we ensure every lens is designed for comfort, clarity, and corneal health.

📍 Visit us at: 1/F Fortune Square Bldg., McArthur Hi-way, San Fernando, Pampanga
(📍Landmark: In front of Coca-Cola Plant, near Villa Julieta)
📞 Contact us: 0915 860 0555 | (045) 402 6386

Let us help you see clearly again—safely and comfortably. Book your specialty contact lens assessment today.

About the author:

Dr Mark Paroli is an Optometrist whose practice includes designing and fitting Artificial Eyes, fitting specialty contact lenses such as Orthokeratology lenses, Scleral Lenses, Kerasoft Lenses, and RGP Lenses.

Mark Paul Paroli