Contact lenses are medical devices placed directly onto the surface of the eye to correct vision. Establishing a consistent routine for their insertion, removal, and daily maintenance is paramount for ocular health. Since these lenses rest on the delicate corneal tissue, any lapse in hygiene or technique can introduce foreign debris or microbes, potentially leading to serious complications. Understanding and executing the proper steps ensures both visual comfort and the long-term safety of the eyes.
Preparing for Contact Lens Use
The process begins with thorough hand hygiene to prevent the transfer of bacteria and oils to the lens surface. Hands must be washed completely using a non-perfumed, plain soap, paying particular attention to the fingertips and palms. After rinsing, hands must be dried with a clean, lint-free towel, since residual moisture can cause the lens to stick to the finger, making placement difficult.
Once hands are clean and dry, the lens must be inspected for any visible tears, nicks, or debris; any damaged lens must be discarded immediately. A critical step is confirming the lens is oriented correctly, ensuring it is not inside out. When held up on the fingertip, the lens should form a perfect, smooth bowl shape with edges pointing straight up. If the edges flare out, resembling a saucer, the lens is inverted and must be flipped to ensure comfortable placement on the cornea.
Step-by-Step Lens Insertion
To begin insertion, place the contact lens on the tip of the dominant hand’s index finger, maintaining the correct “bowl” orientation. It is helpful to always start with the same eye to prevent accidentally mixing up lenses if prescriptions differ. To maintain a wide-open eye aperture, use the non-dominant hand to hold the upper eyelid near the lash line and the middle finger of the dominant hand to gently pull down the lower lid. This technique prevents the natural blinking reflex from interfering with placement.
With the eye held open, the wearer should look straight ahead or slightly upward. The index finger carrying the lens is then brought slowly toward the eye until the lens makes gentle contact with the cornea or the lower white part of the eye (sclera). The lens adheres to the moist surface of the eye upon contact.
Once the lens is on the eye, slowly retract the index finger before releasing the lower and then the upper eyelid. A gentle, slow blink allows the lens to settle and center itself naturally on the cornea. If vision is blurred, the lens may be off-center or have debris underneath, requiring removal and re-cleaning. A properly centered lens should feel comfortable and provide immediate, clear vision.
Proper Techniques for Lens Removal
The removal process must begin with a thorough washing and drying of the hands to avoid transferring pathogens to the eye or the lens. Look up or straight ahead while using the middle finger of the dominant hand to pull the lower eyelid down firmly.
The most common method involves using the index finger to gently slide the contact lens downward onto the white part of the eye (sclera). Moving the lens off the central, more sensitive cornea increases comfort during the final step. Once the lens is positioned on the sclera, use the thumb and index finger to gently pinch the lens’s edge and lift it away from the eye.
Use only the fleshy pads of the fingertips for this pinching action, as fingernails can scratch the lens material or the eye’s surface. If the lens is difficult to remove due to dryness, applying a few drops of lubricating solution can facilitate easier removal. After removal, the lens should be immediately cleaned or discarded, depending on its replacement schedule.
Essential Lens Care and Safety Protocols
For reusable lenses, proper cleaning and storage are necessary to prevent the buildup of protein deposits and microbial contamination. After removal, place the lens in the palm of a clean hand, cover it with fresh disinfecting solution, and gently rub it with the finger for the duration recommended by the solution manufacturer. This “rub and rinse” step is more effective at removing deposits than simply rinsing alone.
The lens is then rinsed again with fresh solution and placed in a clean lens case, completely submerged in new disinfecting solution. Never reuse or “top off” old solution, as its disinfecting power diminishes quickly, which is a significant risk factor for eye infections. The lens case itself should be emptied, rinsed with fresh solution, and allowed to air dry upside down between uses. The case must be replaced at least every three months.
Several strict safety warnings accompany contact lens use:
- Avoidance of water is paramount. Tap water, swimming pools, and hot tubs can harbor harmful microorganisms that cause severe, sight-threatening infections.
- Unless specifically prescribed for extended wear, lenses should never be worn while sleeping, as this reduces oxygen flow to the cornea and increases infection risk.
- A wearer must immediately remove their lenses and consult an eye care professional if they experience persistent redness, pain, excessive tearing, or a sudden change in vision.