For patients with advanced Keratoconus, traditional contact lenses and even standard scleral lenses can sometimes fail to provide a stable, comfortable fit due to extreme corneal irregularities. At Paul Vision Institute, we utilize EyePrintPRO™, a prosthetic scleral cover shell designed from a precise 3D impression of the ocular surface. This technology allows us to map every elevation and depression of the eye with sub-micron accuracy, providing 20/20 clarity to patients in Wilmington who were previously told their vision was untreatable.

Keratoconus is a progressive condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape, creating irregular astigmatism that glasses cannot correct. While standard scleral lenses vault over the cornea, they remain limited by their pre-defined shapes. EyePrintPRO™ is different; it is a total impression-based system. We use a gentle, medical-grade material to create a physical mold of your eye, a process that takes only minutes. This mold is then 3D-scanned and used to mill a lens that mirrors your eye’s unique topography perfectly.

Because the lens fits like a key in a lock, it eliminates the friction and rotation that cause discomfort in other lenses. This is especially vital for North Carolina patients with corneal transplants or severe scarring who need a lens that protects the delicate ocular surface while restoring high-definition sight.

FAQ: The 3D Impression Process

• Does the impression hurt? No. We use a specialized numbing drop, and the impression material is a soft, cool gel that sets in about 60 seconds.
• Is this different from a regular scleral lens? Yes. Regular lenses are fitted from a kit of existing shapes; EyePrintPRO™ is created specifically for your unique ocular DNA.
• How long do the lenses last? With proper care and enzymatic cleaning, these high-oxygen-permeable lenses can provide excellent vision for years.
• Can it help with dry eye? Yes, because the lens holds a constant reservoir of sterile saline against the eye, it acts as a therapeutic liquid bandage.