A Comprehensive Guide to Putting in Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses is a convenient and often preferred method of vision correction. However, the initial process can be daunting. This guide will walk you through the steps of putting in your contact lenses, from preparation to insertion and removal, ensuring you are well-prepared and your eyes are safe.

Preparation

Before you begin, it's crucial to keep your hands clean. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean running water, and make sure they are completely dry. This prevents any dirt or bacteria from transferring to your lenses, which can cause irritation or infections. If you are following the instructions on a soft lens or RGP lens, wash both lenses separately to avoid losing smaller pieces.

Inserting Contact Lenses

The process of putting in a contact lens is straightforward but requires an initial learning curve. Let's break it down step-by-step:

For Soft Lenses

Begin by pulling your lower eyelid down with your writing hand, using the tip of your index and middle finger to gently pinch and lower the lid.

Use the index finger from your other hand to gently raise your upper eyelid.

Once both eyelids are open, locate the lens and place it on the white of your eye, aligning it correctly.

Release your grip on the eyelids to allow them to blink naturally, distributing the lens across your eye.

For initial wear, it's recommended to start with a shorter duration, about 4-6 hours, and gradually increase as your eyes get used to the lenses. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can cause irritation or dislodge the lenses.

For RGP (Rigid Gas Permeable) Lenses

RGP lenses are smaller than soft lenses, making the insertion process easier. Start by pulling your lower eyelid down and upper eyelid up.

Gently place the lens on the white of your eye, ensuring it is correctly positioned.

Open your eyelids naturally and let your eyes blink a few times to help the lens settle into position.

Since RGP lenses are generally less likely to move once initially positioned, you can start with a regular wear schedule.

Removing Contact Lenses

Removing contact lenses is as important as putting them in, to ensure they do not get damaged or lost. Follow the correct steps to minimize potential irritation:

For Soft Lenses

Begin by washing your hands with soap and clean running water.

Empty your storage container, rinse it with sterile saline, and refill it with fresh storage solution.

Hold your eyelids apart with your non-dominant hand and use the thumb and forefinger of your dominant hand to gently pinch the lens from the white of your eye, avoiding the edges.

Once the lens is out, place it on the pad of your dominant hand's index or middle finger, rinse it with sterile saline, and store it in the fresh solution in your container.

To maintain your lenses, store them in a clean case daily, and replace the case regularly to prevent contamination.

For Hard (RGP) Lenses

Begin by washing your hands with soap and clean running water.

Pinch the lens from the lens edge with your thumb and forefinger, gently loosening the lens from your eye.

Lift your eyelids and let the lens fall onto your finger.

Rinse the lens with sterile saline and store it in the fresh solution in your container.

Additional Tips

For optimal handling and wearing of your contact lenses, consider the following tips:

Order light-tinted lenses to make it easier to locate them if they fall out.

Use blunt or rounded fingernails to minimize the risk of eye injury from long fingernails.

Insert your lenses when you are standing straight or slightly bent forward and looking downwards, as this allows better visibility.

Use a well-lit mirror to ensure you can see the lens position clearly.

It is essential to receive personalized instructions from your optometrist, as they can demonstrate the correct techniques and ensure you are comfortable with the process. Regular visits to your eye doctor are crucial for maintaining safe and healthy contact lens wear.