Contact lenses are a convenient alternative to eyeglasses for those who enjoy sports, have physically demanding jobs, or simply prefer to see clearly without the obstruction of glasses. With proper care, contacts are safe and comfortable, but once in awhile, a lens may slip out of place. Eric G. Stocker, OD, in Amherst, OH, has been one of the community’s most trusted optometrists for nearly 30 years. Below, his team explains what to do if a contact lens gets stuck behind your eye. 

How Do Contacts Get Stuck? 

The good news is it’s physically impossible for a contact lens to become stuck behind the eye, thanks to a lining on the inner surface of the eyelids called the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva folds behind the back of the eyelids and covers the whites of the eyes, providing a protective barrier. Because of this layer, it’s not possible for a contact lens, dust, or eyelashes to become stuck. However, if you rub your eyes while wearing contacts or bump your eye, the lens may fold in half and slide under the eyelid. It may be uncomfortable, but there’s no need to panic. 

How Can You Remove It? 

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and let your hands air dry to avoid getting towel fibers onto your fingertips. You may need to touch your eye to remove the contact. But first, try closing your eyes, and, with your finger on the outside of the lid, feel around to find the lens. Shift your eyes from left to right and up and down to try to reposition it. You may need to moisten your eyes with eyedrops and massage the lid to lubricate the eyeball and lens. If you feel the lens shifting down, open your eyes and remove it. If that doesn’t work, dip a cotton swab in contact solution and pull your eyelid up while looking down. Then, use the tip of the swab to remove the lens. If you’re still unsuccessful, try flipping your eyelid up to retrieve the contact. 

When all else fails, call your optometrist to schedule an appointment. An eye care professional can help you remove the lens without damaging your cornea. If you’re an Amherst resident, turn to Eric G. Stocker, OD. His office offers comprehensive eye care, including help with contact lenses and eyeglasses, as well as eye exams and vision tests. Call (440) 988-4419 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more.