Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses, often referred to as “hard” contacts, are made from durable, firm plastic materials that maintain their shape on the eye. They provide exceptionally clear vision, particularly for complex prescriptions like high astigmatism. Unlike soft lenses, RGP lenses adhere more tightly and require a specialized method for removal. The plunger, a small suction cup device, is an effective tool designed to safely break this seal and lift the rigid lens from the eye.
Preparing for Safe Removal
Before attempting to remove any contact lens, establishing a sterile environment is paramount to preventing eye infections. Begin with a thorough hand washing using a mild, non-moisturizing soap and clean running water, ensuring all traces of soap residue are rinsed away. Hands should then be dried completely with a clean, lint-free towel, as residual moisture or lint can transfer to the eye or lens, causing irritation or contamination.
The physical setting for removal should also be prepared carefully, ideally over a clean, flat surface like a vanity counter, to prevent losing the small lens if it drops. If performing the removal over a sink, placing a clean, light-colored towel over the drain will prevent a lost lens from washing away. The plunger tool itself must be inspected for cleanliness; rinse it with fresh contact lens solution and dry it before use.
Detailed Plunger Application Technique
The application of the plunger requires controlled stability and precise placement. Stabilize your head and look straight ahead into a mirror to maintain a steady visual axis. With the non-dominant hand, gently but firmly hold the eyelids open to prevent blinking, pulling the upper lid up and the lower lid down to expose the entire lens.
The tip of the plunger should be moistened slightly with a drop of saline or approved multipurpose solution, which assists in creating a secure suction seal with the lens surface. Carefully bring the plunger toward the eye, aiming to place the cup directly onto the center or the lower third of the rigid lens. Apply gentle pressure to the plunger’s handle, sufficient only to create the suction necessary to hold the lens firmly against the cup.
Once the lens is secured, the technique involves a smooth, deliberate movement to dislodge the lens from the corneal surface. Pull the plunger straight out and slightly away from the eye, ensuring the movement is perpendicular to the lens plane. The lens should detach cleanly with the plunger, allowing for immediate transfer to the palm. To release the lens, a slight squeeze or twist of the plunger handle will break the vacuum seal.
Addressing Stuck Lenses and Post-Removal Care
If the RGP lens feels stuck or is difficult to remove, it may indicate a lack of moisture or that the lens has decentered from the cornea. In this situation, the eye should be lubricated immediately with a few drops of sterile rewetting drops or saline solution to restore the cushioning tear layer beneath the lens. After applying the drops, wait a few minutes and gently blink to encourage the lens to re-center over the pupil before attempting the plunger removal again.
If the lens has shifted onto the white of the eye, looking in the direction opposite to the lens’s location can sometimes help it glide back toward the center. Persistent, unsuccessful attempts to remove a firmly stuck lens should be stopped immediately to avoid corneal irritation, and a consultation with an eye care professional is advised.
Post-Removal Care
Following successful removal, the lens must be cleaned right away with an approved cleaning solution, gently rubbing the lens to remove any mucus or protein deposits before storing it in fresh disinfecting solution. The plunger tool should be cleaned with solution and allowed to air dry in a clean case. It is generally recommended to replace the silicone plunger tip every few months for optimal hygiene.