This guide covers the safe and effective methods for removing contact lenses, a procedure fundamental to maintaining long-term eye health. Proper technique prevents damage to the lens and the delicate surface of the eye. We will detail the specific removal steps for common soft lenses and the distinct methods required for rigid gas permeable lenses.
Removing Standard Soft Lenses
The removal process for standard soft contact lenses uses a gentle pinch technique, relying on the lens’s flexible nature. Use your non-dominant hand to hold the upper eyelid near the lash line and the middle finger of your dominant hand to pull the lower lid down. This stabilizes the eye and prevents blinking.
With the eye fully open, look upward. This slides the lens slightly down onto the white part of the eye (sclera). Use the pad of your dominant hand’s index finger to gently slide the lens further down toward the lower eyelid. This movement helps break the natural suction holding the lens against the cornea.
The final step involves the “pinch” using the soft pads of your index finger and thumb, avoiding fingernails. Gently bring the finger and thumb together on opposite sides of the lens, folding it slightly into a taco shape. Once folded, the lens lifts easily away from the eye’s surface and can be placed into its case.
Specific Methods for Rigid and Hard Lenses
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) or “hard” lenses cannot be removed with the pinch method due to their firm, non-flexible structure. Removal often involves using the eyelids to physically dislodge the lens. One common method is the blinking technique: open your eyes wide and use your middle finger to pull the skin at the outer corner of your eyelid tightly toward your ear.
While holding the skin taut, blink with force. This causes the eyelid margin to catch the edge of the lens and dislodge it onto your cheek or a clean towel. A second, highly effective method utilizes a small, specialized suction cup or plunger, often recommended for beginners.
To use the plunger, wet the tip with saline or conditioning solution. Look straight ahead and gently press the cup directly onto the center of the lens. The gentle suction adheres the tool to the RGP lens, allowing you to pull the lens smoothly away from the eye. When removing the lens from the suction cup, slide it sideways to release the suction, preventing damage to the lens.
Troubleshooting Dry or Stuck Lenses
A contact lens may feel “stuck” or immovable if it has dried out, often after extended wear or sleep. If the lens is centered but dry, rehydrate it using a steady stream of sterile saline, multipurpose solution, or specific rewetting drops. After applying the drops, close your eye and gently massage the upper eyelid for a few seconds to help the lens loosen.
If the lens has moved off-center or folded under an eyelid, locate it in the mirror and then look in the opposite direction of its location. For example, if the lens is stuck high under the upper lid, look down to maneuver the lens back toward the center. Gently massaging the eyelid and blinking frequently encourages the lens to return to a position for standard removal.
If a soft lens tears during removal, remain calm and ensure all pieces are accounted for. For larger fragments, slide the piece to the white part of the eye or the corner with a clean fingertip before gently removing it. If the eye remains irritated or if you cannot remove a stuck lens after several attempts, stop and seek advice from an eye care professional.
Hygiene Rules for Lens Removal
Hand hygiene is the most important preventative step for safe contact lens removal. Wash your hands thoroughly with a mild, non-cosmetic soap free of lotions or heavy fragrances, as residues can transfer to the lens and irritate the eye. Scrub for at least 20 seconds, followed by a complete rinse to remove all soap.
Drying your hands completely with a clean, lint-free towel is essential. Water can introduce microorganisms to the eye, and lint fibers cause discomfort. For reusable lenses, proper storage is necessary: rinse the case with fresh solution—never tap water—and fill it with new, unexpired disinfecting solution before placing the lens inside.
Do not attempt to remove lenses if your eyes are severely red, painful, or show signs of infection, as this could worsen the condition. Avoid “topping off” the solution in the case; the old solution must be discarded daily to prevent the buildup of bacteria and biofilm. Replacing the lens case every one to three months significantly reduces the risk of eye infection.