Contact lenses are a convenient alternative to glasses. However, they do require specific care to use them comfortably. If they get dried out, you may have difficulty removing them. When this happens, follow these guidelines to get them out without damaging your eyes.

Lens Type

Soft Lenses

Before handling your eyes or lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with soap so you don’t transfer bacteria.

Soft contact lenses are more likely to get stuck when they’re dried out, so you need to rehydrate the affected eye. Use a contact lens solution, a sterile saline solution, or eye drops to moisten your eye. Then close it and gently massage the lid to loosen the lens.

When you feel the lens move, you can take it out. If this doesn’t happen immediately, repeat the process until it works, which may take several minutes.

GP Lenses

For gas permeable (GP) lenses, it’s best to use a small suction cup device—which can be found in many stores’ contact lens aisles—when they get stuck.

You also can use the rewetting method, then roll or blink your closed eye to dislodge the lens. When you open your eye, gently pull up the edge of the lens to release the suction keeping it in place. Don’t massage the lens, as this can scratch your eye.

Lens Location

If the lens is stuck in the side of the eye or under an eyelid, look in the opposite direction to try to dislodge it. Blink several times afterward to lubricate the lens for easier movement. Use a lubricating solution to rinse the eye if needed.

If you have trouble with stuck contact lenses or other vision issues, consult Nelson O. Yoshioka, Jr., O.D. and Cheryl C. Niitani O.D. They and their staff serve patients in Pearl City and Honolulu, HI, with more than 22 years of experience. Visit their website to learn more about their services. Call (808) 734-7050 to schedule an appointment for the Honolulu office or (808) 455-3333 for the Pearl City office.