Contact lenses offer a convenient, comfortable solution for improving vision. Whether you’re a seasoned contact lens wearer or trying them for the first time, you might find yourself in situations where you don’t know if your lenses are inserted correctly or where you can’t tell if your contact is still in your eye.
Luckily, there are simple ways to determine if your lens is inside out and fix it immediately. An inside-out contact lens will have a slightly flared or bowl-like edge instead of a smooth, curved shape. There are also several tests you can perform to identify whether your lens is inside-out.
How Should Contact Lenses Fit?
Contact lenses are designed to sit comfortably on the surface of your eye, almost like they’re not there at all. When positioned correctly, contacts help to provide clearer vision without irritation. However, even the best lenses can’t deliver a good experience if they’re oriented the wrong way.
If a lens is inside out, it can disrupt your day by causing discomfort and blurry or uneven vision. Thankfully, the signs of a misaligned lens are generally easy to spot. With a few simple steps, the issue can be fixed.
Signs a Contact Lens Is Inside Out
If you’re unsure whether your contact lens is inside out, keep an eye out for these telltale signs:
- Eye discomfort or irritation: Wearing a contact lens that is inside-out often feels unnatural or unsettled, prompting you to blink more than usual because you can feel the edges of the contact lens.
- Blurred or distorted vision: If your eyesight hasn’t improved as expected, your lens might not be properly aligned.
- A sensation of something feeling off: Your lenses should feel like they’re not there. If you continue to feel them for a couple of minutes after insertion, there may be an issue.
- The lens moves around too much: A lens that doesn’t stay put could be inside-out, affecting its fit and performance.
- Cloudy or unclear vision: An inside-out lens won’t sit properly on your cornea, leading to obstructed or uneven clarity.
How to Tell If a Contact Lens Is Inside Out
Here are three foolproof ways to tell if your contact lens is on the right way:
Check the Shape
Perhaps the simplest way to determine the orientation of your lens is by inspecting its shape. Place the lens on the tip of your index finger with the edge facing upward. Next, observe the edges of the lens:
- Inside out: If the edges flare outward, creating a rim or resembling a bowl with a lip, the lens is inside out.
- Correct orientation: The lens will look like a smooth, rounded bowl, with no rim or outward flare.
Set up bright lighting to ensure you can see the shape clearly.
Look for Markings
Many contact lenses feature laser-etched markings, such as numbers or letters, to help identify their orientation. You can find these markings by doing the following:
- Hold the lens up to a light source.
- Look for these tiny markings near the edge of the lens.
- If the markings appear backwards or reversed, your lens is inside out.
- Flip the lens and check again to see if the characters are facing the right way.
This simple trick can save you time and discomfort.
Try the Taco Test
If the shape and markings are hard to distinguish, you can use the “taco test” to help determine the orientation of your lens. Gently pinch the edges of the lens together as though folding it into a taco shell. Observe how the sides respond:
- Correct Orientation: The edges will curve inward toward one another.
- Inside Out: The edges will flare outward or resist folding smoothly.
This method is quick, reliable, and easy to perform on the go.
How to Remove Stubborn Contact Lenses
If you’ve put your lens on inside out and want to remove it, don’t panic. Follow these steps to remove the lens safely and easily:
- Wash and dry your hands: Before touching your eyes, ensure your hands are clean to prevent irritation or infection.
- Blink or use rewetting drops: Apply lubricating eye drops if you feel discomfort. This can help dislodge a stuck lens.
- Look up and slide the lens: Gently pull down your lower eyelid, look upward, and use your fingertip to slide the lens toward the white part of your eye.
- Pinch gently to remove: Lightly pinch the lens between your thumb and forefinger to remove it.
- Avoid using sharp objects or tools to remove a lens. If you’re struggling, take a break, add more lubricating drops, and try again. If you can’t get your lens out yourself, visit your optometrist.
Finding the Right Contact Lenses for You
The right fit can make all the difference when using contact lenses. A poorly-fitted lens may cause discomfort, blurry vision, and even long-term eye health issues. That’s why it’s important to schedule a contact lens exam tailored to your specific needs and prescription.
At Insight Vision Care Optometry, our experienced team is here to help you find the right lenses for your eyes. We combine years of expertise with the latest technology to ensure you receive the best possible care. Don’t hesitate to schedule your appointment today!
