Putting a contact lens into the eye can initially seem difficult, requiring you to overcome the natural reflex to blink. Many first-time wearers find the process intimidating, but practice makes it a simple daily routine. Learning the proper, safe technique is important for protecting eye health and ensuring comfortable wear.
Essential Pre-Insertion Steps
The process begins with strict attention to hand hygiene to prevent the transfer of microorganisms. Wash your hands thoroughly with mild, non-cosmetic soap that lacks heavy oils, perfumes, or moisturizing lotions, as these residues can adhere to the lens and cause irritation or blurry vision. Dry your hands with a clean, lint-free towel to ensure no fibers or moisture droplets remain.
Once your hands are clean and dry, remove the lens from its case and place it onto the tip of your dominant hand’s index or middle finger. Before proceeding, visually inspect the lens to ensure it is correctly oriented, a process called the “bowl check.” The lens should form a smooth bowl shape with the edges pointing straight up. If the edges appear flared outward, the lens is inside out and must be reversed.
Examine the lens for any debris, tears, or nicks, which can cause discomfort and potentially scratch the cornea. If you see foreign particles or damage, rinse it generously with fresh contact lens solution. Never use tap water for rinsing, as it may contain microorganisms, like Acanthamoeba, that can lead to severe eye infections.
Step-by-Step Contact Lens Insertion Technique
Begin in a well-lit area, ideally standing over a clean, flat surface like a counter, which can catch the lens if it falls. Always start with the same eye first—either the right or the left—to maintain consistency and prevent accidentally mixing up lenses if you have different prescriptions.
With the lens resting on your dominant hand’s index finger, use your non-dominant hand to secure your upper eyelid. Place a clean finger close to the upper lash line and gently pull the lid upward. This movement prevents blinking and holds the lashes out of the way during the approach.
Secure the lower eyelid using a finger from your dominant hand, typically the middle or ring finger. Place this finger just below the lower lash line and pull the lid down to create a wide opening. Keeping both lids held open counteracts the natural tendency to blink as the lens approaches.
Maintain a steady gaze, looking either straight ahead or slightly upward, depending on the technique that feels most comfortable. Bring the fingertip holding the lens toward your eye. The goal is to place the lens gently onto the central transparent dome of the eye (the cornea) or onto the white part of the eye (the sclera).
Once the lens makes contact with the eye’s surface, it should immediately transfer from your finger. Remove your finger, ensuring the lens remains centered on the eye. After the lens is in place, gradually release the pressure on your lower eyelid, followed by the upper eyelid.
Troubleshooting and Post-Insertion Comfort
Immediately after insertion, blink gently a few times to allow the lens to settle and center itself naturally on the cornea. If the lens feels comfortable and vision is clear, the insertion was successful. If you experience a sharp sensation or immediate discomfort, the lens may be inside out, torn, or have a particle trapped underneath it.
If the lens feels uncomfortable, remove it immediately, inspect it for damage, and rinse it thoroughly with solution before reinsertion. If the lens has shifted onto the white part of the eye, it can be repositioned by closing your eyelid and lightly massaging the area over the lens. You can also use a clean finger to gently slide the lens back to the center of the cornea.
A small air bubble may become trapped beneath the lens, which usually resolves itself with a few gentle blinks. A slight awareness of the lens is common for new wearers, but this sensation should quickly fade. If pain, persistent redness, or blurred vision continues, remove the lens and consult your eye care professional immediately.