Scleral Lens Market Forecasts to 2030 - Global Analysis By Product, Material, Distribution Channel, Application, End User and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Scleral Lens Market is accounted for $312.58 million in 2024 and is expected to reach $750.61 million by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 12.4% during the forecast period. A scleral lens is a large-diameter contact lens designed to cover the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). Scleral lenses vault over the cornea, providing a cushion of fluid that can protect and stabilize the cornea, improving vision and comfort for individuals with irregular corneas, severe dry eye, or other corneal conditions. Their design helps in managing conditions such as keratoconus and can also be used for enhanced vision correction and comfort.

According to data published by Dry Eye Directory, in 2020, around 16.4 million Americans were suffering from dry eye, representing around 6.8% of the total population.

Market Dynamics:

Driver:

Rising prevalence of corneal disorders

The rising prevalence of corneal disorders, such as keratoconus and corneal dystrophies increases demand for specialized vision correction solutions that traditional lenses cannot adequately address. Scleral lenses provide superior comfort and vision improvement by covering the cornea and creating a protective layer of fluid. This heightened need for effective management of corneal disorders drives market expansion, as both patients and eye care professionals seek advanced solutions to enhance visual acuity and quality of life for those affected.

Restraint:

Complex fitting process

The complex fitting process for scleral lenses involves precise measurements and adjustments to ensure a proper fit, as the lenses cover the entire cornea and rest on the sclera. This complexity arises from the need for custom sizing and alignment to prevent discomfort and ensure optimal performance. The detailed fitting procedure requires specialized equipment and expertise, which can be time-consuming and costly. This complexity can limit market growth by deterring potential users and eye care professionals due to the increased time, cost, and need for specialized training.

Opportunity:

Increase in aging population

Older adults commonly experience age-related eye conditions such as dry eye, presbyopia, and keratoconus. As the corneal surface changes with age, scleral lenses provide a comfortable and effective solution by offering superior vision correction and a protective barrier for sensitive eyes. The aging demographic's rising demand for advanced vision care solutions, coupled with a growing focus on maintaining quality of life, drives market expansion. Additionally, older adults are more likely to seek specialized eye care, further fueling the growth of scleral lenses.

Threat:

Limited insurance coverage

Limited insurance coverage for scleral lenses occurs because many insurance plans categorize them as elective or specialty items, often excluding them from standard coverage. This restriction results in higher out-of-pocket costs for patients, making scleral lenses less accessible for those without sufficient financial resources. The high expense can deter potential users and limit market growth, as many individuals may opt for more affordable alternatives. Consequently, the limited insurance coverage hampers widespread adoption and slows the overall expansion of the scleral lens market.

Covid-19 Impact

Covid-19 impacted the scleral lens market by temporarily reducing elective eye care visits and lens fittings due to lockdowns and social distancing measures. However, increased screen time and a heightened focus on eye health during the pandemic boosted awareness of eye-related issues, including those addressed by scleral lenses. The market saw a rebound as restrictions eased, with growing interest in long-term eye comfort solutions and telehealth consultations contributing to recovery and growth.

The dry eye syndrome segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The dry eye syndrome segment is estimated to have a lucrative growth. Scleral lenses are highly effective for managing dry eye syndrome as they create a protective barrier over the cornea, trapping a layer of lubricating fluid between the lens and the eye. This cushioning helps to alleviate symptoms by maintaining moisture and reducing irritation. Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses do not touch the cornea, which minimizes discomfort and enhances stability. Their design provides significant relief for individuals with severe dry eye, improving overall comfort and visual clarity.

The adult segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The adult segment is anticipated to witness the highest CAGR growth during the forecast period. Scleral lenses are increasingly used in adults for addressing various vision and comfort issues. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like keratoconus, irregular corneas, or severe dry eye, providing enhanced visual acuity and eye comfort. Scleral lenses offer stability and consistent vision correction by covering the entire cornea and resting on the sclera, which can be crucial for adults seeking reliable, long-term solutions for complex eye conditions or for those who experience discomfort with traditional lenses.

Region with largest share:

The scleral lens market in the Asia-Pacific region is experiencing notable growth due to rising awareness about eye health and increasing prevalence of corneal disorders. Advancements in lens technology and customization are driving market expansion, particularly in countries like China, India, and Japan, where demand for specialized eye care is growing. The region benefits from a large and aging population, heightened by the increasing adoption of advanced medical devices. The market is supported by expanding healthcare infrastructure and a growing number of trained eye care professionals, contributing to the widespread availability and adoption of scleral lenses.

Region with highest CAGR:

In North America, the scleral lens market is expanding rapidly due to high awareness and adoption of advanced eye care solutions. The prevalence of corneal conditions and dry eye is driving demand for scleral lenses in the region. The region benefits from well-established healthcare infrastructure and a large number of skilled eye care professionals, leading to increased accessibility and customization of scleral lenses. Growing acceptance among patients seeking long-term vision correction solutions and improved quality of life further supports market growth in North America.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players profiled in the Scleral Lens Market include Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Bausch + Lomb, CooperVision, Menicon Co., Ltd., EssilorLuxottica, UltraVision CLPL, Euclid Systems Corporation, Art Optical Contact Lens, Inc., Blanchard Contact Lenses, Inc., Rising Star Optical, Ziemer Ophthalmic Systems, Visionary Optics, Gelflex and SynergEyes.

Key Developments:

In May 2024, Bausch + Lomb Corporation announced the U.S. launch of Zenlens ECHO, a non-prosthetic, custom scleral contact lens technology designed to fit a wide variety of corneal shapes and sizes, including patients who have advanced ocular conditions such as corneal degeneration and certain postoperative conditions.

In February 2023, Visionary Optics has launched Europa Tangent, a new scleral lens that provides customizable design and a three-zone step-system for optimal fitting. the lens design was based on clinical experience and analysis of data from more than 10,000 fittings. It includes one landing zone curve, which follows the natural contour of the scleral surface and provides a smoother, softer transition to the landing zone.

Products Covered:

• Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Scleral Lenses
• Custom Scleral Lenses
• Gas Permeable Scleral Lenses
• Hybrid Scleral Lenses
• Other Products

Materials Covered:

• Silicone Hydrogel
• Traditional Hydrogel
• PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate)
• Fluoro-silicone Acrylate
• Other Materials

Distribution Channels Covered:

• Hospitals
• Eye Clinics
• Optometry Offices
• Retail Pharmacies
• Other Distribution Channels

Applications Covered:

• Keratoconus
• Dry Eye Syndrome
• Post-Surgical Applications
• Irregular Cornea
• Other Applications

End Users Covered:

• Pediatric
• Adult
• Geriatric

Regions Covered:

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • Italy
  • France
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Qatar
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:

• Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
• Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
• Covers Market data for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026, and 2030
• Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
• Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
• Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
• Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
• Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

Free Customization Offerings:

All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:

• Company Profiling
  • Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
  • SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
  • Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
  • Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances