ACO to host hands-on mini-scleral lens workshop

With demand for mini-scleral lenses growing, the Australian College of Optometry (ACO) is launching a new hands-on workshop to help optometrists build practical skills and confidence in this complex area of contact lens fitting.

Mini-scleral lenses provide an effective option for patients with keratoconus, corneal scarring, post-surgical complications, and severe dry eye – yet many optometrists remain hesitant to incorporate them into practice due to fitting complexity and uncertainty around patient selection.

Presented by Scott Panozza, Manager Contact Lens Services at ACO Eye Health, and Shonit Jagmohan, Owner and Optometrist at Vision Camberwell, the workshop will explore best practices, real-world case examples, and troubleshooting tips through two focused presentations:

Fitting mini-scleral lenses with confidence: best practices and techniques
From first fit to follow-up fits and fixes: a practical approach to scleral lenses

Alongside the presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to work through case studies, handle fitting sets, and practise applying and removing mini-scleral lenses. This practical, small-group format is designed to simulate real-life clinical scenarios and help bridge the gap between theory and application.

“Mini-scleral lenses can feel daunting if you haven’t had hands-on experience, but they’re incredibly rewarding when fitted well. This workshop is designed to give optometrists the confidence to integrate them into everyday practice,” said Scott Panozza, Manager Contact Lens Services at ACO Eye Health.

Designed for optometrists looking to expand into specialty lenses, the workshop will address common challenges such as patient education, aftercare, and adapting fitting strategies for complex cases. It is particularly suited to those with some contact lens experience who are ready to explore more advanced fitting techniques and broaden their scope of practice.

Accredited by Optometry Australia for 4.5 interactive CPD hours, the session will support optometrists in offering effective, tailored care using mini-sclerals.

Registrations are now open. For more details and to secure your place, visit https://profession.aco.org.au/mini-scleral-workshop-2025