Specialist contact lenses
Custom lenses for eyes that ordinary lenses do not suit: keratoconus and other irregular corneas, eyes that have had surgery, very high prescriptions, and anyone who has been told that nothing fits.
Who we fit
- Keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration and other irregular corneas
- Eyes that have had a corneal graft, cross-linking or ring segments
- Corneas that have become irregular after laser surgery
- High astigmatism and very high long or short-sighted prescriptions
- Dry, sensitive or allergic eyes that cannot tolerate soft lenses
- Rigid lens wearers who now need help with reading
Our optometrist Gohar Majid leads the clinic and sees every specialist patient personally, from the first trial lens to routine aftercare.
The lens designs we fit
We are not tied to one manufacturer. Menicon supplies most of our specialist lenses, and we order from other laboratories when a particular design suits the eye better.
Miniscleral and scleral
Large rigid lenses that vault the cornea and rest on the white of the eye. Stable, comfortable and protective. Our first choice for most keratoconus, post-graft and severe dry eye fits. Designs include Time XL.
RGP corneal lenses
Small rigid gas permeable lenses, including Rose K2 for keratoconus and fully custom designs for high astigmatism. Crisp vision and easy handling; comfort improves over the first weeks.
Hybrid lenses
A rigid centre for clarity with a soft skirt for comfort and centration. Useful when a corneal RGP will not stay centred over the cone.
Custom soft lenses
Thicker, made-to-measure soft designs such as KeraSoft for early cones and irregular corneas, and custom torics for prescriptions the disposables do not reach.
Piggyback systems
A rigid lens worn over a soft lens, for eyes that need rigid optics but cannot tolerate a rigid lens on its own.
Overnight lenses
EyeDream Ortho-K lenses reshape the cornea while you sleep for clear daytime vision without lenses, and are one of our myopia control options for children. Read about EyeDream.
How a fitting works
- A full assessment: history, vision, tear film, corneal topography and OCT.
- Trial lenses from our diagnostic sets, so we can see how each design behaves on your eye before anything is ordered.
- Custom lenses ordered to your measurements. Most arrive within two weeks.
- Collection and teaching. We do not let anyone leave until they can insert, remove and clean their lenses confidently.
- Aftercare. An early check, then reviews at intervals we agree together. Specialist lenses need looking after, and so do the eyes underneath them.
Fitting a specialist lens can take more than one visit and occasionally more than one design. That is normal, and it is built into the way we charge.
Consultation, lens and aftercare fees: to be confirmed by the practice.
Book a lens consultation
Bring your current lenses and glasses, any specifications you have, and hospital letters if you have been under a clinic.
Or call 0161 432 8101.
Referrals welcome
We take referrals from other opticians, GPs and hospital eye clinics, and we are happy to share results with whoever else is looking after you.
Questions people ask us
How long do specialist lenses last?
Rigid lenses typically last one to two years with good care. Scleral lenses are similar. Custom soft lenses are replaced more often, usually every three to twelve months depending on the material. We check the lenses at each review and tell you when they are due.
Can I wear them all day?
Most people can, once they have adapted. Scleral lenses in particular are worn comfortably for long days because the lens never touches the cornea. If you need to wear lenses every waking hour for work or driving, tell us; it affects which design we recommend.
What if the first lens does not work?
It happens, especially with steep or unusual corneas. Trying a second design is a normal part of the process, and we explain before you start how the fitting period and any refits are charged, so there are no surprises. The aim is a lens you actually wear.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly. If you are under a hospital clinic, let us know and we will keep them informed.
Is there NHS help with the cost?
Sometimes. Hospital contact lens services fund lenses for some medical conditions, and NHS complex lens vouchers apply to certain high prescriptions. We will tell you what you may be entitled to before you commit to anything.
Related pages
- Keratoconus the condition, the lenses and the questions people ask
- EyeDream Ortho-K overnight lenses for lens-free days
- Everyday contact lenses dailies, monthlies, torics and multifocals
- Revive Eye Spa our dry eye clinic
Told that nothing fits?
That is exactly the eye we like to see. Call 0161 432 8101 or book a consultation and we will find out together.
