Many contact lens wearers fear a lens slipping behind their eye. However, it is anatomically impossible for a contact lens to get lost behind the eyeball, dispelling a common misconception.
Understanding Eye Anatomy
The eye possesses a protective membrane known as the conjunctiva, which prevents foreign objects from migrating behind the eye. This thin, transparent membrane covers the white part of the eyeball, called the sclera, and also lines the inner surface of the eyelids. At the point where the eyelid meets the eyeball, the conjunctiva folds back on itself, forming a continuous barrier. This anatomical arrangement creates a cul-de-sac, making it impossible for a contact lens to pass beyond this point. The lens can only move within the confines of this conjunctival sac, either on the front surface of the eye or tucked underneath an eyelid.
What Happens When a Contact Feels Lost
When a contact lens feels “lost,” it means it has dislodged from its proper position on the cornea but remains within the conjunctival sac. The lens might have folded in half, slid beneath the upper or lower eyelid, or become dry and adhered to the eye’s surface. A common scenario involves the lens migrating upwards under the upper eyelid, where it can cause a sensation of discomfort or feeling “stuck.”
To locate a displaced lens, first wash your hands thoroughly to prevent introducing bacteria into the eye. Then, try looking in different directions (up, down, and side to side) to help dislodge the lens and bring it back into view. Gently massaging the eyelid, particularly the upper lid, can also encourage the lens to move. If the eye feels dry, applying a few drops of rewetting solution or sterile saline can lubricate the lens, making it easier to shift and remove. Once the lens is visible, carefully slide it back onto the cornea or gently pinch it between your thumb and forefinger to remove it.
When to Seek Professional Care
While a contact lens cannot get lost behind the eye, professional attention is warranted in certain situations. If you experience persistent discomfort, redness, or pain in your eye after attempting to remove a displaced lens, you should consult an eye care professional. Blurred vision that does not resolve after lens removal, or if you suspect the lens is still present and you cannot locate it, also warrants professional evaluation. These symptoms could suggest a corneal abrasion, an infection, or another underlying issue that requires medical assessment and treatment.