Wearing contact lenses can be a convenient and effective way to correct vision, but occasionally, a contact lens may become stuck in your eye. This can be uncomfortable and potentially harmful if not addressed promptly.

If you find yourself in this situation, there are several steps you can take to safely remove the stuck contact lens.

1. Stay calm and avoid rubbing your eye

It’s important to remain calm if your contact lens gets stuck in your eye. Panicking or rubbing your eye vigorously can aggravate the situation and potentially damage your eye.

Take a few deep breaths and try to relax before proceeding with the removal process.

2. Wash your hands thoroughly

Before attempting to remove the contact lens, it’s crucial to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. This step will help prevent any potential infections or additional complications when touching your eye.

3. Rinse your eye with saline solution or artificial tears

To help lubricate your eye and potentially dislodge the contact lens, gently rinse your eye with saline solution or artificial tears. Tilt your head back, pull down your lower eyelid, and place a few drops of the solution into your eye.

Blink a few times to distribute the solution evenly.

4. Try the blink method

If the contact lens is still stuck, you can try the blink method. Close your eyes and gently massage your eyelid in a circular motion. Then, open your eyes and see if the contact lens moves or floats away.

This technique can help dislodge the lens and make it easier to remove.

5. Use an eyelid manipulation technique

If the blink method doesn’t work, you can attempt an eyelid manipulation technique. Start by washing your hands and standing in front of a mirror. Look up and pull your upper eyelid gently over your lower eyelid.

While looking down, gently roll your eye into the direction of your nose and then back towards the center. This movement might cause the contact lens to move from under your eyelid so that you can remove it.

6. Use a wet cotton swab or clean finger

If the previous methods haven’t successfully removed the stuck contact lens, you can try using a wet cotton swab or a clean finger to gently touch the edge of the lens.

Carefully lift and slide the lens towards the lower part of your eye and then pinch it to remove it. Ensure that your hands are clean and avoid putting excessive pressure on your eye.

7. Visit an eye care professional if you’re unsuccessful

If all your attempts to remove the stuck contact lens fail, it’s essential to seek professional help. Visit an eye care professional, such as an optometrist or ophthalmologist, who can address the situation safely.

They have the expertise and tools necessary to remove the contact lens without causing any harm.

8. Follow proper contact lens care and handling techniques

Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding contact lenses getting stuck in your eyes. By following proper contact lens care and handling techniques, you can significantly reduce the risk of complications.

Always wash your hands before touching your lenses, disinfect them regularly, and replace them as recommended by your eye care professional.

9. Avoid wearing your contact lenses overnight

Sleeping with your contact lenses increases the chances of them getting stuck in your eyes.

It is essential to remove your contact lenses before going to bed, even if they are labeled as “extended wear.” Extended wear simply means that you can wear them for an extended period, but overnight wear still poses a higher risk of lens-related complications.

10. Consider switching to daily disposable lenses

If you frequently experience contact lenses getting stuck in your eyes, you may want to consider switching to daily disposable lenses.

These lenses are designed to be worn for a single day and then discarded, eliminating the need for cleaning and reducing the risk of complications or buildup.