Scleral Lens Market: Size, Dynamics, Regional Insights and Market Segment Analysis – by Type, Application, End-User and Region

The Scleral Lens Market size was valued at USD 309.5 million in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 616 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 10.33%.
Scleral Lens Market Overview
Scleral lenses are large, specially designed contact lenses that cover the entire cornea and part of the white of the eye (sclera). They are often used to correct irregular astigmatism or corneal conditions such as keratoconus. The scleral lens market is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for advanced treatments for dry eye disease and keratoconus. Scleral lenses, especially mini-scleral lenses, are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to provide a protective fluid reservoir between the lens and the eye, offering significant relief and improved comfort for patients suffering from chronic dry eye. Despite the market's growth, it faces challenges primarily due to the high cost of scleral lenses. These lenses can range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on their customization and advanced features. The cost is further exacerbated by the specialized fitting process, a limited number of eye care professionals equipped to handle scleral lenses, and the niche demand for these products.

1. About 90% of people with keratoconus have achieved better vision and comfort with scleral lenses compared to other contact lenses.

2. Scleral lenses are highly customizable and fit individual eyes perfectly, leading to a 95% satisfaction rate among users.
Regionally, North America holds the largest share of the scleral lens market, driven by its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high awareness levels, and the presence of major industry players such as Bausch + Lomb, BostonSight, and ABB Optical Group. Recent developments, such as Bausch + Lomb’s launch of Zenlens ECHO and ABB Optical Group’s acquisition of Green Optics, underscore the dynamic nature of the market.

3. More than 80% of patients who have undergone corneal surgery experience improved vision and comfort with scleral lenses.

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Scleral Lens Market Dynamics
Increasing Demand for Scleral Lenses in Dry Eye Disease Treatments Significantly Drives Scleral Lens Market Growth

The increasing demand for scleral lenses, particularly mini-scleral lenses in the treatment of dry eye disease, significantly drives the growth of the scleral lens market. Dry eye disease affects millions of people around the world, and many patients suffer from severe symptoms that conventional treatments often cannot adequately treat. Scleral lenses offer a unique solution to provide a protective reservoir of fluid between the lens and the surface of the eye. This reservoir helps to continuously hydrate and lubricate the cornea, effectively relieving dryness and discomfort. As awareness of scleral lenses grows among patients and eye care professionals, more people are turning to these lenses as a viable long-term treatment option for chronic dry eye conditions that impair vision. daily activities and reduce the quality of life. This growing patient preference for scleral lenses in the treatment of dry eye directly contributes to market expansion, driving innovation and investment in lens technology to further improve comfort and effectiveness.
1. Dry eye affects about 344 million people globally. In the United States, 16 million people suffer from it. It is more prevalent in Asia compared to North America and Europe.
2. More than 75% of dry eye syndrome patients experience significant relief and increased comfort by using scleral lenses.
Additionally, the growth of the scleral lens market in response to dry eye has been enhanced by advances in lens design and manufacturing techniques. Modern scleral lenses are increasingly customizable, allowing practitioners to tailor fluid reservoir volume and fit each patient's unique eye anatomy and dry eye severity. This customization not only improves patient comfort but also visual acuity, making scleral lenses a preferred choice for people with irregular corneas or refractive errors exacerbated by dry eye. In addition, collaborative efforts between eye care providers and lens manufacturers to improve fitting processes and improve patient education on lens care and maintenance will contribute to the expansion of the market.
3. In 2022, around 5.5% of people in India had dry eye disease.


Scleral Lens Market Challenge

The high cost of scleral lenses poses a significant challenge in the market, especially due to their specialized nature and the extensive fitting required. While standard soft contact lenses can be relatively affordable, scleral lenses can cost up to $1,000 each, and more advanced options such as EyePrintPRO lenses can approach $3,000 each. These lenses are often necessary for people suffering from specific eye diseases, such as keratoconus, for which conventional treatments are ineffective. However, the high cost may make these lenses out of reach for many patients, especially those without comprehensive insurance coverage. This limits their adoption, even among people who can benefit greatly from the advanced comfort and vision correction that scleral lenses provide.

The cost is also influenced by the complexity involved in prescribing and fitting scleral lenses. Few eye care professionals are equipped to provide this service, and many patients are referred to specialized practices that have made the necessary investments in technology and training. Additionally, the market for scleral lenses is relatively small, with only 1.4% of the U.S. contact lens market being scleral lenses. This niche demand, coupled with the expensive fabrication process, requiring CNC lathes and diamond-cutting tools further drives up costs. The limited supply and specialized production process mean that scleral lenses are not yet a mass-market product, and while there are efforts to expand their availability, significant cost reductions are unlikely to happen quickly.
Scleral Lens Market Segment Analysis
Based on Type, the scleral lens market is segmented into mini-scleral, semi-scleral, and full-scleral lenses. Mini Scleral Lenses holds the largest market share of about xx% in the scleral lens market in 2023. According to MMR analysis, the segment is further expected to grow at a CAGR of xx% during the forecasted period (2024-2030). This is due to their specialized design and the increasing number of patients suffering from dry eye syndrome. These lenses are larger than typical contact lenses, usually between 15 and 18 mm in diameter, and are designed to cover the cornea, providing a stable fit on the sclera (white part of the eye). This unique design allows mini-scleral lenses to effectively rehabilitate vision in patients with distorted corneal shapes caused by diseases such as keratoconus, scars, or after corneal transplant procedures. By creating a fluid space between the lens and the cornea, mini-scleral lenses help improve vision and provide comfort for patients with serious eye diseases. Its ability to trap unreserved fluid under the lens relieves dry eye symptoms, which is a huge benefit for chronic dry eye sufferers, further increasing its demand.

Mini-scleral lenses are commonly used to treat keratoconus. According to an analysis, 10-20% of keratoconus patients need corneal transplants. This shows the importance of mini-scleral lenses in helping to avoid such surgeries by offering a non-invasive treatment option.
The high degree of customization also makes these lenses attractive to patients who need precise correction of irregular corneas. However, the complexity of fitting mini-scleral lenses, which require multiple fitting appointments and specialized handling techniques, poses a barrier to wider adoption. Despite this, advances in lens technology and better training of ophthalmologists are expected to drive growth in this segment as well, meeting the growing demand for more sophisticated vision correction solutions.
Scleral Lens Market Regional Insights
In 2023., North America dominated the scleral lens market holding a significant market share of more than XX%. North America's scleral lens industry has seen significant growth due to advanced healthcare infrastructure, high awareness, and the strong presence of major industry players. Leading Manufacturers of scleral lenses such as Bausch + Lomb, ABB Optical Group, and BostonSight are from North America. These companies not only manufacture scleral lenses but also invest heavily in research and development, leading to innovations in lens materials and design. Additionally, the higher prevalence of eye diseases such as keratoconus and dry eye syndrome, combined with greater access to specialized treatments, contributed to North America's dominance in the global market.
1. In North America, an estimated 50 to 200 people per 100,000 are affected by keratoconus. In the United States, the prevalence rate is 54.5 per 100,000 individuals.
2. Currently, around 16.7 million to 50.2 million Americans have dry eyes, which is about 5-15% of the population. Dry eye disease costs the U.S. economy more than USD 55.4 billion annually.
Scleral Lens Market Competitive Landscape

The scleral lens market is highly competitive, featuring several major key players who significantly contribute to its growth and innovation. Bausch + Lomb, a prominent name in the eye care industry, offers a wide range of scleral lenses known for their high quality and advanced technology. Their lenses are designed to address various complex eye conditions, including keratoconus and severe dry eye, making them a leading choice among eye care professionals. BostonSight is well-known for its specialty scleral lenses and research in custom lens design, contributing to advancements in personalized treatment solutions. ABB Optical Group also plays a crucial role in the scleral lens market by providing a broad portfolio of lenses and supporting services. Their extensive distribution network and focus on customer service enhance their market reach. Each of these companies brings unique strengths and innovations to the scleral lens market, driving competition and improving treatment options for patients with complex eye conditions.

In 2021, BostonSight introduced a new free-form lens design feature called Smart360 for their BostonSight SCLERAL lenses. This innovative feature allows eye care practitioners to create custom lenses ranging from 16mm to 19mm, offering greater flexibility. BostonSight, known for its advancements in treating corneal diseases and dry eye, previously pioneered empirical fitting and introduced the SCLERAL-IG system in 2019. With Smart360, practitioners can now send a detailed 360-degree scan of the eye to BostonSight’s lab through the FitConnect platform. The new system works with OCULUS Pentacam CSP and CSP Pro, as well as Eaglet Eye ESP, enhancing the precision and customization of scleral lenses.

Key Developments
1. In May 2024, Bausch + Lomb launched Zenlens ECHO scleral lenses in the United States. These custom scleral lenses are designed to fit various corneal shapes and sizes, including those with advanced eye conditions like corneal degeneration and specific postoperative needs. The new technology offers a non-prosthetic solution for improved eye health.
2. In 2022, ABB Optical Group acquired Green Optics, an independent optical lab located in Auburn Hills, Michigan. This move expands ABB Labs to become the largest independent optical laboratory network in the U.S. The Green Optics facility, which spans 24,000 square feet, features advanced technology for digital lens production and various coatings. Scott Pearl, senior vice president and managing director of ABB Labs, praised Green Optics as a significant enhancement to their lab network.

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Global Scleral Lens Market


Report Coverage
Details


Base Year:
2023
Forecast Period:
2024-2030


Historical Data:
2018 to 2023
Market Size in 2023:
USD 309.5 Mn.


Forecast Period 2024 to 2030 CAGR:
10.33%
Market Size in 2030:
USD 616 Mn.


 Segments Covered:
by Type
Mini Scleral Lenses
Semi Scleral Lenses
Full Scleral Lenses


by Application
Irregular Cornea
Ocular Surface Disease
Refractive Error
Others


by End User
Hospitals
Eye Clinics
Others



Scleral Lens Market, by Region:
North America (United States, Canada, Mexico)
Europe (UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Austria, Turkey, Russia and Rest of Europe)
Asia Pacific (India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, ASEAN, and Rest of APAC)
Middle East and Africa (South Africa, GCC, Egypt, Nigeria, and Rest of ME & A)
South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, and Rest of South America)
Scleral Lens Market, Key Players
1. Visionary Optics
2. Appenzeller Kontaktlinsen AG
3. Gelflex
4. AccuLens
5. Valley Contax Inc.
6. ABB Optical Group
7. BostonSight
8. Bausch + Lomb
9. Optact International Ltd.
10. Laboratoire LCS
11. Art Optical Contact Lens, Inc.
12. HERZ submicron lathing s.r.l.
13. Biolens Lab
14. Metro Optics
15. TruForm Optics
16. SynergEyes
17. Blanchard Contact Lenses
18. Cooper Vision
19. Essilor International S.A.
20. AccuLens, Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected size of the scleral lens market by 2030?
Ans: The Scleral Lens Market is expected to reach a value of USD 309.5 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.33% from USD 616 million in 2023.

2. Which region leading the scleral lens market?
Ans: North America is the leading region in the scleral lens market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high awareness, and strong presence of major industry players like Bausch + Lomb, BostonSight, and ABB Optical Group.

3. What types of scleral lenses are available in the market?
Ans: There are three main types of scleral lenses: mini-scleral, semi-scleral, and full-scleral lenses. Mini-scleral lenses hold the largest market share and are particularly popular for treating conditions such as keratoconus and dry eye because of their ability to provide a stable fit and a fluid reservoir that helps with vision and comfort.

4. What are the main challenges in the scleral lens market?
Ans: The biggest challenge for the scleral lens market is their high cost, which can make them inaccessible to some patients. Additionally, the complex fitting process requires specialized equipment and training, limiting the number of eye care professionals who can provide them.

5. What is the scope of the scleral lens market report?
Ans: The scleral lens market report helps with the PESTLE, PORTER, Recommendations for Investors & Leaders, and market estimation of the forecast period.