Why would anyone travel from Berlin all the way to Kelheim just to fix their vision? Let me explain.
I’ve been wearing scleral lenses since 2020, after being introduced to them by the renowned Dr. Curtis Frank in Boston. They completely changed my vision experience, providing comfort and clarity that standard gas-permeable lenses or glasses simply couldn’t match. After relocating to Germany, I needed a new pair, but flying back to Boston just for a fitting wasn’t practical. Thankfully, I knew exactly what to look for—thanks to guidance from Dr. Frank and Jeff Scleral, a dedicated patient advocate. Their insights helped me navigate Germany’s scleral lens fitters and practitioners with confidence, ensuring I’d find someone with the right expertise and equipment.
After numerous phone calls, emails, and thorough research, one name came up again and again: Simon Jäkel at Optik Jäkel. Simon not only uses the most advanced technology—including OCT measurements that precisely map both the cornea and sclera—but also pioneered freeform scleral lenses in Europe. He works closely with lens manufacturers, refining production methods to ensure each lens is tailored perfectly to the patient’s unique eye surface. His dedication, decades of experience, and command of new technologies result in lenses with an unparalleled fit. (Fun fact: He even attended the same university as Dr. Frank!)
My experience at Optik Jäkel was phenomenal. The staff is professional, meticulous, and genuinely committed to getting every detail right. From the initial measurements to the final lens fitting, no effort was spared. At least three different trained experts including Simon himself double-checked every angle, material, and production method to achieve the best possible outcome. Yes, it’s a long trip from Berlin—and I’ve traveled more than 2,000 km in total plus multiple hotel stays—but it was absolutely worth it. As an added bonus, their careful data collection led me to get new glasses that are the best I’ve ever owned.
A special mention goes to Gero Meyer in Frankfurt. Although I ultimately chose Optik Jäkel for other reasons, Gero demonstrated true dedication to patient care and whats in their best interest. If you’re in Frankfurt, he’s another fantastic option.
In the end, if you’re looking for top-tier scleral lens expertise, cutting-edge equipment, and a caring team that goes above and beyond to perfect your vision, Optik Jäkel in Kelheim is the place to go—even if you’re based in Berlin, Hamburg, Krakow, or Rome. My eyes (and my new lenses) are proof of that! After all, you only have one pair of eyes.