How to Tell if a Contact Lens is Still in the Eye

Imagine you’ve had a long day and now it’s time to remove your contact lenses. But as you try to take them out, something feels wrong. It can be confusing and frustrating when you find out one lens is missing.

This often happens but the truth is that a contact lens can’t get lost in your eye. Instead, it may just be stuck under your eyelid or moved out of place. So, there’s no need to panic, and you just need to check it carefully.

If left unchecked, this can lead to discomfort or even more serious contact lens-related complications.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to check if your contact stuck in the eye. You will be back to feeling comfortable in no time!

Common Signs That the Contact Lens Is Still in Your Eye

If your contact lens is folded, shifted, or starting to dry out, your eye will usually react. You might feel discomfort, irritation, or blurry vision.

Here are some common signs that the lens is still in your eye but may be stuck:

• Irritation or Discomfort: A stuck lens often causes a scratchy, dry, or gritty burning feeling in your eye. You might feel like something is poking or rubbing against your eyelid.
• Blurry or Hazy Vision: If one eye is blurrier than the other, it could be a sign that the lens is stuck in an odd position or folded up.
• Redness and Watering: Your eye might get red or teary as it reacts to the misplaced lens.
• Light Sensitivity: Feeling more sensitive to light in one eye can also mean the lens is irritating the surface.
• A feeling that something is “there”: Even if you can’t see the lens, a stuck one can cause a constant sensation that something’s in your eye.

Step by Step Guide on How to Check If a Contact Lens Is Stuck in Your Eye

If you think your contact lens is still in your eye, this step-by-step guide will help you track it down without the stress:

• Wash your Hands

Before you touch your eye, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Clean hands help prevent bacteria, dirt, and oils from getting into your eyes, which can cause irritation or even infection. It’s a simple step, but it makes a big difference in keeping your eyes safe.

• Check your Vision

Then, cover one eye at a time and see if there’s a difference in clarity. If one eye is blurry while the other is crystal clear, there’s a chance the lens is stuck or out of position in that eye.

• Use Mirror and Bright Light

Stand in front of a well-lit mirror—natural daylight is best for tracking lenses. Look closely at the white part of your eye (the sclera) and around the iris. You might see the lens clinging to one side or tucked under the lid.

• Roll Your Eyes Gently

Now close your eyes and slowly roll them in all directions—up, down, side to side. This can help shift a stuck lens into view or even move it back to the center of your field of vision.

• Slide and Sleek Technique

Look straight ahead and gently pull your upper or lower eyelid in the opposite direction. Sometimes, this small shift helps reveal or release a lens that’s hiding along the edge of your eye.

• Inspect under Eye Lids

This part can feel a little weird but it’s important. Gently pull down your lower eyelid and look up. Then do the same with your upper lid by looking down. The lens might be folded or stuck underneath especially if your eyes are dry.

How to Know If Contact Is Inside Out

Occasionally, you may have trouble figuring out if the lens is inside out. Here are a few methods to help you tell if your contact lens is the wrong way around:

• Side View Check

Place the lens on your fingertip and view it from the side. If the lens forms a perfect cup shape, it is correctly oriented. If the edges flare outward, it’s inside out.

• Taco Test

Taco Test is a simple and effective method. Gently pinch the lens between your thumb and forefinger and press it together. If the edges curl inward like a taco, the lens is right-side out. If the edges curl outward, it’s inside out.

• Edge Tint

Some lenses are designed with a subtle tint. If your lens has this feature, look at the edge. If the color is vibrant and the lens curves inward, it is correctly oriented. If the edges appear dull or flare outward, it’s inside out.

How Do I Take Out My Contact Lenses

When you find contact lens stuck in eyes, you can take the following steps to remove it safely:

•  Don’t Force the Lens

It’s crucial not to force the lens out, as this can cause damage to both your eye and the lens itself.

• Use Rewetting Drops

Sometimes, a contact lens may dry out and stick to your eye. Rewetting drops can help moisten the lens and make it easier to remove.

Simply apply the drops and wait a few moments for the lens to become more pliable.

• Blink Repeatedly

Try blinking several times. This can help loosen the lens from the surface of your eye. It may also help to look up and down or side to side while blinking.

• Gently Massage Your Eyelid

Gently massaging your eyelid in a circular motion can help shift the lens into a more accessible position. This technique can also help dislodge the lens if it’s stuck in a fold of your eyelid.

When to See an Eye Care Professional

If you have tried all the recommended steps and still can’t find or remove your contact lens, it’s time to get expert help. A trusted eye care center like Cedar Park Vision is your best next step.

Our experienced team offers gentle and thorough care for situations just like this. We use advanced equipment and a personalized approach to protect your eye health and ensure you’re comfortable every step of the way.

If you’re feeling unsure or uncomfortable —don’t wait. Book a visit with Cedar Park Vision, and let our experts take care of your eyes with precision, care, and compassion.

Conclusion

In most cases, a contact stuck in eyes is not as alarming as it may initially seem. By following the steps for how do I take out my contacts outlined in this guide, you can usually resolve the issue on your own.

However, if you are unable to remove the lens or experience discomfort, do not hesitate to consult eye care professionals.

Remember, prevention is always better than a cure, so make sure to follow good hygiene practices when handling your lenses to avoid complications in the future.

FAQs

Can a contact lens get lost behind my eye?

Contact lenses cannot get lost behind your eye. There’s a membrane that prevents lenses from traveling past the back of your eye. However, they may become stuck or shift into a fold of the eyelid.

Can I wear contact lenses again after one gets stuck?

Yes, but only after ensuring your eye is not irritated or scratched. Wait until your eye feels completely normal, and if you are unsure, consult an eye care provider before reinserting lenses.

Is it dangerous if I accidentally sleep with my contact lenses on?

Sleeping with lenses not designed for overnight wear can reduce oxygen supply to the eye and increase the risk of infections such as microbial keratitis. If you wake up with discomfort or a lens that feels stuck, lubricate the eye and remove it carefully.