Trouble Inserting Contact Lenses? Pro Tips for Easy Application

Step-by-Step: Soft Contact Lens Insertion

1. Wash & Dry Hands: Soap (non-moisturizing), lint-free towel. No oils, lotions.
2. Check Lens: On fingertip – bowl-shaped (edges up). If edges flare out → inside out. Some have laser marks (1-2-3).
3. Position: Stand/sit before mirror. Non-dominant hand: hold upper lid against brow. Dominant hand: middle finger pulls lower lid down.
4. Approach: Look up or straight ahead. Place lens on lower sclera (white) or directly on cornea.
5. Release: Release lower lid first, then upper. Blink gently.
6. Center: If off-center, close eye, massage lid gently, or remove & reinsert.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use Saline/Re-wetting Drop: 1 drop on lens bowl → increases surface tension, easier placement.
• Trim Nails: Short, filed – prevents lens damage & corneal abrasion.
• Dry Eye? Preservative-free artificial tears before insertion.
• Lighting: Bright, overhead.
• Practice Without Lens: Touch eye with clean fingertip (lower lid pull) to desensitize blink reflex.
• Insertion Tools: DMV inserter, Optiwand – helpful for long nails, tremor, anxiety.

Troubleshooting

• Lens folds/sticks to finger: Too dry → add drop. Too wet → drain excess on finger.
• Air bubble: Massage closed lid; usually resolves.
• Discomfort/Pain: Remove immediately. Check for debris, inside-out, torn lens. If persists → eye doctor.
• Can't keep eye open: Practice holding lids; use other hand to hold upper lid higher.

RGP/Hard Lenses

• Different technique: Place directly on cornea while looking straight ahead. Requires more precision.

When to See Your Eye Doctor

• Persistent discomfort, redness, pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, discharge.
• Annual exam mandatory for contact lens wearers.

Patience + technique = success. Most adapt within 1–2 weeks.