What to Do When Your Contact Lens Tears in Your Eye

A torn contact lens is an unexpected and often uncomfortable situation. While it’s a rare occurrence, knowing what to do when it happens can save you from discomfort and potential damage to your eye. Whether you’re a regular contact lens wearer or new to lenses, this guide will help you manage a torn lens safely.

Why Do Contact Lenses Tear?

Contact lenses can tear for various reasons, including:

• Handling lenses with sharp nails or excessive force.

• Overusing lenses beyond their recommended wear time.

• Using lenses that are dry or improperly stored.

Daily disposable lenses, like those available at Global Lens, are less likely to tear since they are designed for single-day use, eliminating wear and tear from repeated handling.

Steps to Take When a Lens Tears in Your Eye

1. Remain Calm

A torn lens can feel uncomfortable or irritating, but it’s important to stay calm. Panicking can make it harder to safely remove the lens.

2. Wash Your Hands

Before touching your eye, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to prevent transferring dirt or bacteria.

3. Locate the Torn Lens

Look in the mirror and gently examine your eye to locate the torn pieces of the lens. Blink a few times to see if the pieces shift to a more accessible spot.

4. Remove the Lens

Using your clean fingers, gently try to remove the torn pieces of the lens. If the lens is stuck, avoid rubbing your eye, as this can cause further irritation or scratches.

5. Use Artificial Tears

If the torn lens is difficult to remove, apply a few drops of artificial tears to lubricate your eye. This can help the pieces move more freely, making them easier to remove.

6. Check for Remaining Pieces

Once you’ve removed the lens, carefully check your eye to ensure no fragments are left. If you feel lingering discomfort or suspect there are pieces still in your eye, consult an eye care professional immediately.

Preventing Torn Contact Lenses

Use Daily Disposable Lenses

Switching to daily disposable lenses can significantly reduce the risk of tears. Since they are replaced daily, there’s no buildup of wear and tear that can make lenses more prone to damage. Explore daily disposables at Global Lens for a convenient and hygienic solution.

Handle Lenses Gently

Avoid using excessive force when inserting or removing lenses. Trim your nails to prevent accidental tears, and always use fresh solution for storing reusable lenses.

Replace Lenses on Schedule

Overwearing lenses can make them more likely to tear. Stick to the replacement schedule recommended by your eye doctor, whether it’s daily, weekly, or monthly.

When to See an Eye Doctor

If you’re unable to remove all fragments of the lens, experience persistent discomfort, or notice redness or swelling, seek professional help immediately. Your eye doctor can safely remove any remaining pieces and check for signs of irritation or injury.

Conclusion

Dealing with a torn contact lens can be frustrating, but by staying calm and following the right steps, you can resolve the situation safely. To reduce the chances of a lens tearing, consider switching to daily disposable lenses or handling your lenses with extra care