How to Safely Remove a Stuck Contact Lens

If you wear contact lenses, you may have experienced a situation where a lens becomes stuck on your eye. While it can be alarming, it is important not to panic and follow the right steps to safely remove the lens without causing any harm.

Here, we'll walk you through the process of safely removing a contact lens that is stuck in your eye, providing helpful tips and techniques to ensure a successful outcome.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first and most crucial step is to stay calm. Panicking can cause your eye to tense up, making it more difficult to remove the lens. Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Determine if the lens is truly stuck or if it has just shifted out of its normal position.

Wash Your Hands

Before attempting to remove the lens, wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and water. This step ensures that your hands are clean and reduces the risk of introducing dirt or bacteria into your eye during the removal process. Make sure your fingernails are trimmed to prevent scratching of the lenses or your eye’s surface.

Lubricate Your Eye

To help loosen the lens and make removal easier, apply a few drops of lubricating eye drops or artificial tears to your eye. Blink gently to distribute the drops across the surface of your eye.

Gently Massage Your Eyelid

Close your eye and massage your upper eyelid gently in a circular motion. This technique can help dislodge the lens from the surface of your eye and encourage it to move to a more accessible position for removal. Be patient and repeat the process if necessary.

Blink and Move Your Eye

Try blinking rapidly or looking in different directions to see if the lens shifts or moves. Sometimes, a change in eye movement or position can help the lens slide back into its correct position, making it easier to remove. Avoid rubbing your eyes vigorously, as this can cause further irritation.

Use the Blink and Slide Technique

If the lens remains stuck, try the blink and slide technique. Open your eye wide and then blink forcefully. As you blink, simultaneously slide your finger down from your eyebrow towards your eyelashes. This motion can help dislodge the lens and move it down toward the lower part of your eye.

Use a Suction Cup or Contact Lens Plunger

If the previous steps haven't been successful, you can try using a suction cup or contact lens plunger specifically designed for removing contact lenses. Wet the suction cup or plunger, place it gently on the lens, and apply slight pressure while carefully lifting the lens away from your eye. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper usage.

Seek Professional Help if Necessary

If you've tried the above techniques and still can't remove the stuck lens, it's time to seek professional help. Contact your optometrist for assistance. They have the expertise and tools to safely remove the lens without causing any damage to your eye.

In the meantime, if you’re in need of replacement lenses or other eye care products, you can explore options available at Lens World.