Wearing contact lenses can be a game-changer for vision correction, but sometimes they can shift, dry out, or even seem to disappear. If you’re unsure whether your contact lens is still in your eye, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many contact lens wearers experience this at some point. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to tell if your contact lens is still in your eye, how to find it, and how to remove it safely.
Signs Your Contact Lens Is Still in Your Eye
If you suspect that your contact lens is still in your eye but can’t see or feel it right away, there are a few signs to look for:
- Blurred vision: If your eyesight is still blurry, the lens might be misplaced rather than missing.
- Discomfort or irritation: A stuck contact lens can cause dryness, irritation, or a scratchy feeling.
- A feeling of something in your eye: Even if the lens has moved out of place, you might still feel its presence.
- Excessive tearing: Your eye may produce more tears if the contact lens is out of place.
- Redness: If your eye is red or inflamed, the lens may be stuck or causing irritation.
If you experience these signs, there’s a good chance your contact lens is still in your eye—you just need to find it!
How to Check for a Stuck Contact Lens
Sometimes, contact lenses shift under the eyelid or move to a different part of the eye, making them harder to find. Here’s what you can do to check if it’s still there:
- Stay calm: Panicking can make it harder to find the lens and might cause eye irritation.
- Look around: Slowly move your eye in different directions. This can help shift the lens back into place.
- Check the mirror: With good lighting, gently pull down your lower eyelid and lift your upper eyelid to look for the lens.
- Use artificial tears or saline solution: A few drops can help rehydrate a dry lens, making it easier to detect.
If you still can’t find the lens, follow the next steps to locate it safely.
Blink and Move Your Eye Around
Sometimes, simply blinking multiple times or rolling your eye in different directions can help reposition the contact lens. Try looking up, down, left, and right while keeping your eye relaxed.
If the lens is folded or stuck under the eyelid, these movements may help shift it back into view. However, if you still can’t find it, use the following techniques.
Look in the Mirror with Good Lighting
Good lighting is essential when searching for a lost contact lens in your eye. Follow these steps:
- Stand in front of a mirror with bright, even lighting.
- Open your eye wide and examine the white part of your eye, as well as under your eyelids.
- Slowly rotate your eye while looking in the mirror to spot any signs of the lens.
- If necessary, use a flashlight or phone light to improve visibility.
Use Eye Drops to Help Find It
If your lens has dried out, it may become less visible. Use a few drops of artificial tears or saline solution to moisten your eye. This can make the lens more comfortable and help it move back into position.
- Apply 2-3 drops in the affected eye.
- Blink several times to spread the moisture.
- Look in different directions while checking the mirror.
If the lens is stuck due to dryness, this method may help release it.
What to Do If You Can’t Find Your Contact Lens
If you’ve followed all the steps and still can’t locate the contact lens, consider these possibilities:
- The lens may have fallen out: Check the surrounding area, including your clothes and sink.
- It might be folded or stuck under your eyelid: Gently massage your eyelid to move the lens back into place.
- Your eye may be irritated but lens-free: Sometimes, your eye may feel like the lens is still there even after it has fallen out.
If you are unsure, wait a few minutes, blink several times, and check again before attempting removal.
How to Remove a Stuck Contact Lens Safely
If you’ve found the lens and it’s stuck, follow these steps to remove it safely without causing irritation or damage to your eye.
- Relax and take a deep breath: Staying calm will help prevent unnecessary eye strain.
- Rehydrate your eye: If the lens is dry, apply artificial tears or saline solution to loosen it.
- Blink and gently massage your eyelid: This can help reposition the lens.
- Use clean fingers to remove the lens: If the lens is in place but won’t come out easily, gently pinch it with your fingertips.
If the lens is still stuck, proceed with additional removal techniques.
Wash Your Hands First
Before attempting to remove the lens, always wash your hands with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring bacteria or debris into your eye.
Gently Massage Your Eyelid
If the lens is stuck under your eyelid, close your eye and gently massage the area in small, circular motions. This can help shift the lens into a position where it’s easier to remove.
Avoid pressing too hard, as excessive pressure can cause irritation.
Try Saline Solution or Artificial Tears
A few drops of saline solution or lubricating eye drops can help loosen a stuck contact lens. Here’s how:
- Tilt your head back and apply the solution to the affected eye.
- Blink several times to allow the moisture to reach the lens.
- If needed, gently massage your eyelid to encourage movement.
After a few minutes, check to see if the lens has moved into an accessible position.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If you cannot remove the contact lens after multiple attempts or if your eye becomes red, swollen, or painful, it’s time to seek medical help. An eye doctor can safely remove the lens and check for any damage or irritation.
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Persistent redness or irritation
- Pain or sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision that doesn’t improve after removal
How to Remove a Stuck Contact Lens Safely
If you have tried all the above methods and the lens is still stuck, do not force it. Instead, visit an eye care professional for assistance. Attempting to remove a stuck lens forcefully can lead to corneal abrasions or infections.
How to Prevent Contact Lenses from Getting Lost in Your Eye
To avoid dealing with a misplaced contact lens in the future, follow these tips:
- Always keep your eyes moist with artificial tears or lubricating drops.
- Make sure your contacts are properly fitted by an eye doctor.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes excessively while wearing contacts.
- Check your lenses before inserting them to ensure they are clean and undamaged.
- Remove your contacts before sleeping to prevent them from drying out or shifting.
By following these simple precautions, you can minimize the chances of losing a contact lens in your eye.
The Bottom Line
If you’re unsure whether your contact lens is still in your eye, don’t panic. Check for signs like blurred vision, discomfort, or excessive tearing. Use good lighting, artificial tears, and gentle movements to locate the lens. If it’s stuck, follow safe removal techniques to avoid irritation. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to see an eye doctor.