Thinking your contact lens might still be in your eye can be a bit of a panic moment, but don’t worry, it’s usually easier to sort out than it seems. If your eye feels irritated, your vision is blurry, or it just feels like something’s stuck, there’s a good chance the lens is still there.
Take a deep breath, grab a mirror, and follow a few simple steps to track it down. And if it’s being stubborn or you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to schedule an eye appointment.
Is Your Contact Lens Stuck in Your Eye?
First things first, know that a contact lens can’t just disappear into your eye or drift into some far-off crevice.
Your eye has a thin membrane called the conjunctiva that keeps foreign objects (and rogue lenses) from slipping behind your eyeball. If it feels like the lens has disappeared, it’s likely tucked under one of your eyelids or has fallen out without you noticing.
Physical Signs That a Contact Lens Is Still in Your Eye
Not sure if the discomfort is from a stuck contact lens or something else? Here are some telltale signs that your lens might still be hanging around:
- You feel pressure in your eye: A trapped lens often creates a noticeable sensation of something foreign in your eye.
- You’re experiencing blurry vision: If the lens is folded or out of place, your vision may appear distorted or foggy.
- There’s a visible lens fragment: Sometimes, soft lenses can tear, leaving part of the lens in your eye while the rest falls out.
- Redness or discomfort persists: Missing lenses can leave your eye feeling irritated until they’re found and removed.
How to Check for a Lost Contact Lens
One of the easiest ways to determine whether your lens is still in your eye is to use a well-lit mirror. Follow these steps to locate it:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Gently pull down your lower eyelid and inspect the area in the mirror. Look closely for the lens or any shiny, transparent edges.
- If you don’t see anything, tilt your head back and lift your upper eyelid. Again, check for signs of the lens.
- Roll your eyes slowly in all directions to see if the lens shifts into view.
Pro tip: Using a bright flashlight alongside the mirror can help you spot the lens more easily.
The Best Way to Remove a Displaced Contact Lens Safely
If you see or feel the lens:
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Hold your eyelid open with one hand and use the clean fingertips of your other hand to gently pinch and remove the lens.
- If it’s stuck under an eyelid, lubricating eye drops can help slide it into place. Repeat the process slowly and patiently.
Always throw away a damaged or misshapen lens, even if you manage to recover it. Never reuse a lens after it’s been stuck for an extended time.
What to Do If You Feel Discomfort but Can’t See the Lens
Sometimes, the lens is hard to spot. If you’re convinced the lens is still in your eye but can’t find it, try these steps:
- Blink repeatedly to encourage the lens to slide back into place.
- Use lubricating eye drops to rinse and rehydrate your eye. Be generous but gentle, this often helps dislodge the lens.
- Gently massage your closed eyelid in small circles to shift the lens toward the front of the eye.
- Take a break and relax your eyes for a few minutes, then try searching again.
Common Mistakes When Searching for a Stuck Contact Lens
When you’re dealing with an eye emergency, it’s easy to panic. Avoid these common mistakes to keep the situation under control:
- Don’t rub your eye aggressively: This can fold or tear the lens, making it harder to remove and potentially irritating your eye.
- Don’t poke around with sharp tools or your nails: Stick to clean fingertips, and always be gentle.
- Don’t skip handwashing: Bacteria and dirt on your hands can lead to infection.
How Long Can a Contact Lens Stay in Your Eye?
While it’s best to remove a displaced lens as soon as possible, a soft contact lens won’t typically cause harm if it stays in your eye for a short period. That said, leaving it in for too long can increase the risk of:
- Eye infections
- Corneal scratches
- Prolonged irritation
If you can’t locate or remove the lens within a few hours, it’s time to contact our CHROMA Eye Doctors for help. Persistent redness, swelling, or pain may point to a larger issue. Eye health is no joke, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution when something feels off.
Keep Your Vision Safe & Sound
Losing a contact lens in your eye can feel stressful, but staying calm and following these steps goes a long way. Learning how to search, locate, and safely remove a displaced lens is an important skill for any contact lens wearer.
And remember, our optometrists are always there to provide personalized care and advice. If you have any more questions about contact lenses and your eyes, book an appointment with CHROMA modern Eyewear Eyecare.
For maximum convenience, you can also call us at (817) 765-4682 or text us at (817) 737-6281.
