Soft contact lenses provide a glasses-free alternative for vision correction. Given their thin, flexible nature, accidentally flipping one inside out during handling and insertion is a common mistake. Quickly identifying and correcting this issue is important for comfort and proper function. While wearing a lens backward is generally not dangerous, it causes immediate and persistent discomfort that makes all-day wear difficult.
How to Identify a Flipped Lens
The most reliable way to check orientation is through visual inspection before insertion. Start by washing and thoroughly drying your hands with a lint-free towel to prevent the lens from sticking or picking up debris. Place the clean lens on your index finger pad so it forms a cup shape with the edges pointing straight up.
A popular method is the “taco test,” which involves gently pinching the lens between your thumb and forefinger. If oriented correctly, the edges fold inward smoothly, resembling a perfect hard-shell taco. If inside out, the edges flare outward, resisting the smooth inward fold.
Alternatively, examine the lens’s profile from the side while it rests on your fingertip. A correctly oriented lens appears like a smooth, perfect bowl with edges that curve straight up. A flipped lens looks more like a shallow bowl with a noticeable, slightly flared rim or “lip.” Some manufacturers also include tiny laser-etched numbers or letters, such as “123,” near the edge, which will appear backward if the lens is inside out.
Immediate Physical Effects
If a lens is worn backward, the immediate reaction is irritation and discomfort. This happens because the inverted lens does not conform precisely to the cornea’s curvature, disrupting the natural fit. The slightly flared edge of the backward lens makes contact with the sensitive tissue of the inner eyelid and the eye surface.
This friction leads to a gritty sensation, often described as feeling like something is stuck in the eye. A common symptom is excessive lens movement; it slides or shifts significantly when you blink, potentially causing it to pop out entirely. The improper fit also affects the tear film, leading to increased dryness, redness, and an urge to blink or rub the eye.
While discomfort is the primary sensation, vision may also be mildly blurred or inconsistent because the lens is not centered correctly over the pupil. Wearing a soft contact lens inside out for a short period is generally not harmful, but friction can become damaging if left in for an extended time. Remove the lens immediately upon noticing any persistent irritation.
Safe Correction and Insertion Techniques
If you suspect a lens is inside out while in your eye, remove it right away. Always start by thoroughly washing your hands with mild soap and drying them completely to minimize the risk of transferring germs or oils. Once removed, the lens should be immediately rinsed with a fresh, approved contact lens solution.
Never rinse a contact lens with tap water, as it contains microorganisms and minerals that can cause severe eye infections or damage the lens material. After rinsing, correct the orientation using an inspection technique, such as the taco test or side-profile check, and then rinse it again. The lens is now ready for re-insertion, which should feel immediately more comfortable.
To prevent this issue, establish a consistent lens-handling routine. Always check the lens orientation before placing it on your fingertip. Consider always starting with the same eye, such as the right eye, to create a reliable habit. This systematic approach reduces handling errors and helps ensure a comfortable, clear-vision experience.