The corneal reflex, the natural tendency to blink or recoil when an object approaches the eye, can make contact lens insertion difficult. This involuntary response is triggered by the extreme sensitivity of the cornea. Successfully wearing contact lenses requires mastering techniques that bypass this sensitivity by minimizing direct contact with the central part of the eye. The goal is to introduce the lens onto the less sensitive surface of the eyeball, ensuring comfortable placement without triggering a defensive reaction. Using specific methods and specialized tools can make the process routine.
Prepping for Non-Touch Application
A meticulous preparation routine ensures hygiene and successful non-touch application. Handwashing is the foundational step, requiring a mild, non-moisturizing soap to prevent oily residues from transferring to the lens. Hands must then be dried completely with a clean, lint-free towel. A wet fingertip causes the lens to cling to the skin instead of transferring smoothly to the eye.
Next, inspect the lens for proper orientation, often called the “taco test.” A correctly oriented lens resembles a perfect bowl with the rim pointing straight up; flared edges mean the lens is inside out and must be flipped. Ensuring the lens is properly hydrated, perhaps with a drop of fresh solution, helps it adhere to the eye and cushions the placement. Perform the procedure in a brightly lit area over a clean, flat surface to easily locate the lens if it drops.
Finger Techniques for Indirect Placement
Achieving insertion without touching the cornea relies on strategically targeting the less sensitive white portion of the eye, or sclera. This approach, sometimes called the “Look Away” method, overcomes the natural blink reflex. First, stabilize the eyelids using the index and middle fingers of the non-dominant hand. Pull them wide apart and anchor them close to the lash line to prevent spontaneous blinking.
With the lens balanced on the dominant index finger, look sharply away from the approaching lens, either upward or toward the opposite temple. This shifts the sensitive cornea out of the finger’s direct path. Gently place the lens onto the exposed lower or side sclera, which is less reactive to touch than the cornea. Once the lens adheres to the sclera due to fluid surface tension, carefully withdraw the finger. Slowly return the gaze to the front and blink gently, allowing the lens to glide smoothly and center itself naturally over the pupil.
Utilizing Specialized Applicator Tools
Specialized tools offer a completely non-manual insertion option for those who struggle with indirect finger techniques. The most common devices are small, soft-tipped plungers or suction-cup applicators designed to hold the lens securely without fingertip contact. The lens is first carefully transferred from its case to the applicator tip, often using soft-tipped tweezers to avoid damage and maintain sterility.
To use the plunger, firmly hold the upper and lower eyelids open with the free hand, ensuring the lashes are out of the way. Bring the applicator straight toward the eye, gently resting the lens on the eyeball. The key is to withdraw the applicator smoothly while the lens remains adhered to the eye’s surface, facilitated by the plunger’s design. These tools benefit users with longer fingernails or those requiring specialized lenses, such as rigid gas permeable or scleral lenses. Proper cleaning and disinfection of the applicator after each use are necessary to prevent microbe transfer.
Handling Issues and Safe Removal
Even with perfect non-touch insertion, issues may arise, such as the lens folding or feeling uncomfortable, suggesting it has not centered or has trapped an air bubble. If the lens folds or sticks to the finger during application, remove it, rinse with fresh solution, and reapply; forcing a folded lens can cause corneal abrasion. If discomfort occurs after insertion, applying preservative-free rewetting drops and blinking slowly can help the lens settle into position.
Safe removal, minimizing corneal contact, typically relies on the “slide method.” Use a clean, dry fingertip to gently touch the edge of the lens and slide it down onto the sclera, away from the sensitive cornea. Once the lens is on the white part of the eye, gently pinch it off using the pads of the thumb and index finger. Alternatively, small silicone removal tools gently grip the lens edge and lift it off, providing an option for those avoiding direct manual contact.