How to get a lost or stuck contact lens out of your eye

Getting a contact lens stuck in your eye is something that happens very rarely, and it can be an uncomfortable and annoying experience. One of the most common reasons for lenses getting stuck is dryness in the eye. Usually, it’s the soft contact lenses that tend to get stuck compared to the gas-permeable ones. Here’s a helpful guide with easy-to-follow steps for removing both soft and rigid gas-permeable lenses, along with some easy tips to help prevent your lenses from getting stuck in your eyes.

How to remove a stuck contact lens from your eye?

If your lens is stuck in your eye, the very first thing to remember is to stay calm. Trying to force the lens out can lead to more discomfort, so take a deep breath and give yourself a moment before starting the removal process.

Steps for removing a stuck soft contact lens

Steps 1: Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before attempting to remove the lens from your eye. This helps avoid getting any bacteria/impurity transferred from your hands to your eye, causing an infection.

Steps 2: Locate the lens first. Take a close look in the mirror to see whether the lens is still on your cornea or to see if it has moved under the eyelids.

Steps 3: If the lens is stuck on the cornea, it may have lost moisture and become rigid, making it difficult to move off the eye.

Steps 4: Add a few drops of eye drops to your eye (not contact lens solution or water) to hydrate the lens, which will help move the lens around. Make sure that these eye drops are compatible with lenses. You can use eye drops, such as Blink Intensive Tears Vials eye drops.

Steps 5: If the lens has moved under the eyelid or to the corner of your eye, close your eyes and gently massage the centre of the lid so that the lens moves towards the cornea. You should be able to see the lens, then gently pinch or slide the lens off the white part of the eye and carefully remove it.

Removing a gas permeable contact lens from your eye

While soft contact lenses are more likely to become stuck, rigid gas-permeable (RGP) or "hard" lenses can also adhere to your eye. The method for removal in this case requires a slightly different technique. However, the first step is similar to that for soft lenses, i.e. lubricating your eye using hydrating eye drops. The addition of moisture can help loosen the lens slightly, making it easier to remove.

In this situation, it’s best to avoid massaging your closed eyelid. Since the lens has a harder structure, rubbing or massaging might scratch your cornea. Instead, with clean hands, gently use a fingertip to press just beside the edge of the lens to help break the suction that’s making it stick.

Tips to prevent contacts from getting lost or stuck in your eye

Due to the structure of the eye, it is not possible for a contact lens to disappear behind it. However, if a lens somehow gets stuck in your eye, it may feel like it is lost. In order to prevent your lenses from getting stuck or lost, here are some easy-to-follow tips:

1. Stick to prescription lenses

Always go for a lens fitting appointment and wear contact lenses that have been prescribed and approved by your optician.

2. Avoid sleeping in lenses

Unless you have been prescribed extended wear contact lenses, never sleep in your contact lenses, as this can limit the oxygen flow to your cornea and dry out your eyes. In addition, you also increase the risk of infection.

If you fall asleep in your lenses, you risk the lenses sticking to the cornea, making it hard to remove. In this scenario, you shouldn’t attempt to remove them straight away. Wait for at least 30 minutes, use eye drops to hydrate the lens and then attempt to take the lens out. Do not use your contact lens solution or tap water. Once removed, avoid wearing lenses for the rest of the day to allow your eyes to recover. If you have any concerns, you should seek advice from your optician.

3. Do not rub your eyes

Rubbing your eyes can displace the lens, which may cause it to fold and move under your upper lid. In addition to this, it can cause bacteria to transfer and move around your eye.

4. Use an up-to-date prescription

Everyone’s eyes are shaped differently. Therefore, you cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach for contact lenses. Always stick to the lenses prescribed by your optician. If you intend to try new lenses, make sure you consult with your optician or eye care professional first followed by a contact lens fitting appointment. Trying new lenses without expert advice can run the risk of them fitting too tight or too loose, making it hard to get them out of your eye.

What to do if you can't remove a stuck contact lens

If the lens remains stuck after following the previously mentioned steps, we advise you to immediately seek medical advice from a doctor or an eye specialist.

Disclaimer: The advice in this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical care or an in-person check-up. Please check with an eye care professional before purchasing any products. For information on our article review process, please refer to our Editorial Policy.