Learn the essential procedures for Contact Lenses care and handling. Discover the "treatment" of vision correction through proper cleaning, storage, and hygiene.
Treatment and Procedures
The Procedure For Lens Insertion
Proper insertion is the foundation of a successful Contact Lenses experience. You should always start by washing your hands with a mild, oil-free soap and drying them with a lint-free towel. Place the lens on the tip of your index finger and check that it is not inside out (the edges should flare up like a bowl, not out like a saucer). Using your other hand, pull your upper and lower lids apart and gently place the lens on the center of the eye or the white part of the eye. Once you blink, the lens should center itself automatically.
Safe Removal Procedures
To remove your Contact Lenses, look upward and pull your lower eyelid down. Use the pad of your index finger to gently slide the lens down to the white part of your eye. Use your thumb and index finger to pinch the lens lightly and lift it away from the eye. It is important to avoid using your fingernails, as this can tear the lens or scratch your cornea. For RGP lenses, a different "blink and pull" technique or a small suction tool may be used.
Daily Cleaning And Disinfection
For non-disposable lenses, cleaning is a mandatory daily procedure. After removal, place the lens in the palm of your hand and apply a few drops of multipurpose solution. Use your finger to gently rub the lens in a circular or back-and-forth motion for about 20 seconds. This "rub and rinse" method is the most effective way to remove protein, lipids, and makeup debris. Rinse the lens again with fresh solution before placing it in a clean storage case.
Proper Use Of Solutions
The type of solution you use is a critical part of your treatment plan.
- Multipurpose Solutions: The most common type, used for cleaning, rinsing, and storage.
- Hydrogen Peroxide Systems: Provide deep cleaning but require a neutralization step (usually 6 hours) before the lenses can be worn.
- Saline Solution: Used only for rinsing, never for disinfection or storage.
Never use tap water or saliva to clean your lenses, as this introduces dangerous bacteria to your eyes.
Maintaining The Storage Case
The Contact Lenses case is often the source of eye infections if not managed correctly. Every morning, after you put your lenses in, you should empty the case of all old solution. Rinse it with fresh multipurpose solution and leave it to air dry upside down on a clean tissue. Experts recommend replacing your lens case every 3 months. A dirty case can develop a "biofilm" that protects bacteria from the disinfectant in your solution.
Following Replacement Schedules
The "treatment" of your vision only works if you follow the prescribed replacement schedule.
- Daily Disposables: Thrown away every single night.
- Two-Week/Monthly Lenses: Must be discarded on the calendar date, regardless of how many times you actually wore them.
Over-wearing lenses beyond their expiration date causes the material to break down and collect deposits that can scratch the eye or reduce oxygen flow, leading to serious medical complications.
Managing Dryness And Irritation
If you experience dryness while wearing Contact Lenses, the procedure is to use specific "rewetting drops" approved for use with lenses. Regular eye drops or allergy drops can sometimes contain preservatives that bond to the lens and cause irritation. If your eyes become red, painful, or your vision becomes blurry, the primary procedure is to remove the lenses immediately and consult your specialist at Liv Hospital.
Procedures For Handling Lenses While Traveling
Traveling requires extra care for Contact Lenses wearers. You should always carry a backup pair of glasses and a small travel-sized bottle of solution. Avoid transferring solution into smaller, non-sterile containers. If you are flying, be aware that the dry cabin air can make lenses uncomfortable; using rewetting drops more frequently or wearing glasses during the flight is a good strategy. Always use bottled or purified water for washing your hands if you are in an area with questionable water quality.
Avoiding Over-Night Wear
Unless specifically prescribed as "extended wear" lenses, you should never sleep in your Contact Lenses. When your eyes are closed, the cornea receives significantly less oxygen. Adding a contact lens acts as a barrier, further starving the eye of oxygen. This can lead to corneal swelling and increases the risk of a serious infection called a corneal ulcer by nearly eight times. Making removal a part of your nightly routine is essential for long-term safety.
Clinical Follow-Up Procedures
Treatment with Contact Lenses is an ongoing process. Your first follow-up usually occurs a week or two after you start wearing your new lenses. During this visit, the specialist checks for any subtle signs of irritation you may not even feel. They may adjust the power or material if you are having issues with comfort or clarity. Regular annual check-ups are required to renew your prescription and ensure your eyes remain healthy over the years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I put my lens in inside out?
It will feel uncomfortable, like a foreign body in your eye, and it may move around excessively; just remove it, flip it, and re-insert.
Can I top off the solution in my case?
No, you must always discard old solution and use fresh liquid; "topping off" dilutes the disinfectant and increases infection risk.
What should I do if my lens tears?
Never put a torn lens in your eye; it can cause scratches on the cornea. Discard it immediately and use a new lens.
Can I use tap water to store my lenses?
Absolutely not; tap water contains organisms like Acanthamoeba that can cause rare but devastating, sight-threatening infections.
Why do my lenses get blurry at the end of the day?
This is often due to protein buildup or dryness; using rewetting drops or switching to daily disposables can solve this issue.
