Getting a contact lens stuck in your eye can be alarming if you’ve never experienced it before. It can happen when the lens isn’t completely centered on the cornea or if you accidentally rub your eye too hard. Here are three things you should do to remove a misaligned contact lens.

3 Steps to Help Remove a Contact Lens

1. Wash Your Hands

You should always wash your hands with antibacterial soap for at least 30 seconds before handling your contact lenses or touching your eyes. During the day, our hands come into contact with dirt and bacteria from high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, phones, and light switches. Thoroughly cleansing your hands will help avoid irritation and infection when attempting to remove the lens.

2. Use Saline Solution

Lenses that remain stuck on the cornea are most likely dried out. Placing a few drops of saline solution in your eye can provide enough moisture to gently dislodge it. On the other hand, eye doctors advise against using tap water since it can introduce unwanted bacteria into the eye. If you don’t have a saline solution on hand, a multipurpose contact solution is a safe alternative.

3. Gently Massage the Eyelid

If you are unable to see the lens, close your eye, and gently massage the lid in order to coax it out. Adding more saline solution can help keep your eye moist as you do this. Once you have located the lens and moved it back onto the cornea, gently remove it using your pointer finger and thumb.

If you’re having trouble with your contact lenses, contact Alan L. Ginsburg OD for assistance. With over 40 years of experience, this skilled optometrist provides comprehensive eye care to the residents of High Point, NC. He also specializes in a wide range of services including vision training, contact lens fittings, and glaucoma testing. Visit his website for information about his additional services, and call (336) 889-6566 to schedule an appointment today.