How to remove a stuck contact lens

Learn how to remove a contact lens stuck is definitely useful because, sooner or later, this inconvenience may happen to you too, if you have chosen to wear lenses.

It doesn't matter whether you use them daily or only on special occasions. Just in case, it is good to be prepared and know the right technique, as well as being equipped with what you need to easily remove the lens.

If you've ever dealt with this annoying inconvenience, you know how frustrating it can be. Fortunately, there is a technique to remove a stubborn lens safely, without causing damage to your eye.

In this article we will not only share with you useful tips to facilitate the removal process, but we also want to advise you on the precautions to take, precisely to avoid similar complications.

1. Apply artificial tears

Apply artificial tears to remove a stuck contact lens is perhaps the most effective method.

Before you begin, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and water. Then, dry them carefully.

Then proceed by applying a few drops of artificial tears directly to the affected eye. This will help hydrate the lens and reduce friction with the ocular surface, making it easier to remove. Sometimes, in fact, the lens adheres to the eye, due to the dry eye , it remains adherent to it and it becomes difficult to pinch it to remove it.

After waiting a few seconds for the artificial tears to work, gently close your eye to help absorb the liquid.

Using artificial tears to remove a stuck contact lens is a safe approach to alleviate discomfort and ease the extraction process. Artificial tears are, in fact, composed of a formulation similar to the natural one of human tears, offering various advantages in this specific situation.

First of all, artificial tears help lubricate both the surface of the eye and the contact lens, thus reducing friction and the total adhesion of it to the eye. For this reason, it becomes easier to move the stuck lens without causing damage to the cornea or other ocular tissues.

Secondly, the application of humectant liquid provides additional hydration to the lens, helping to soften it. A hydrated contact lens is more susceptible to displacement and removal, greatly improving the success of the operation.

Additionally, artificial tears are designed to provide instant comfort to dry or irritated eyes . Using them in case of a stuck lens not only facilitates removal, but can also alleviate any sensations of dryness or discomfort associated with the situation.

In fact, it is easy for the eye to become irritated or, even worse, to become inflamed when attempting to remove a badly positioned or stuck lens.

2. Massage the eye

Once you have dosed a few drops of liquid into the eye, keeping it closed, lightly massage the area above the lens, i.e. the eyelid . Do this gently, using circular motions.

You can use the ring finger which is the finger that has the least strength in the hand so as not to apply too much pressure, risking moving the lens completely and, perhaps, not being able to find it when you reopen your eye.

If you feel pinching inside your eye or feel uncomfortable, you will likely need to repeat the operation again. In this case, pour a few more drops of artificial tears into your eye.

Among other things, if you suffer from dry eyes we recommend using artificial tears regularly to prevent problems like this. Additionally, the chance of your eyes drying out increases the longer you wear contact lenses.

Another useful tip is to monitor the reaction of your eyes when you wear contact lenses. Try alternating the use of lenses with that of glasses if you notice that, after a few hours of wearing lenses, your eyes begin to lack their own natural lubrication.

Of course, we would advise you not to rub your eyes excessively with your hands when wearing contact lenses because this could cause them to get stuck or start to move in the eye.

Proceed with great patience and caution. Avoid sudden movements that could damage the cornea or cause further discomfort. If the lens continues to resist, it is best to stop and seek assistance from an eye care professional.

3. Don't forget to ask for help

By following our suggestions you should easily be able to remove a poorly positioned lens on the eye. However, if the discomfort persists, don't let discouragement take over.

We therefore want to urge you not to forget to ask for help because it is important to remove stuck lenses.

We strongly recommend that you consult an optical expert to avoid any complications. Here's who you can contact in case of need:

• ophthalmologist , a doctor specializing in eye care who has the experience and tools necessary to deal with situations such as removing a stubborn contact lens;
• optician , ocular health professionals who can also provide care of this type and are able to assess the situation, providing specific advice on resolution;
• eye emergency room, where you will find specialized staff capable of managing eye emergencies and providing you with the necessary assistance.

The last tip (but not in terms of importance) is, in fact, not to go to sleep wearing a stuck lens even if it doesn't bother you, perhaps thinking " tomorrow is another day ", as Rossella O'Hara said. Not only may you have even more difficulty removing them when you wake up, but it is not recommended because you risk causing serious damage to the eye.

Over time, you will learn to manage yours without anxiety or fear contact lenses . During this time we will always be here to support you with practical advice and quality products.