What to Do If a Contact Lens Gets Stuck in Your Eye
If you’ve ever had a contact lens stuck in your eye, you know how uncomfortable and scary it can feel. The good news is, most of the time, it’s harmless and easy to fix. In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions to safely remove a stuck lens whether it’s soft, hard, off-center, or torn.
Why contact lenses get stuck in your eye
Contact lenses can feel stuck for a few simple reasons. The most common is dryness when your eye or lens doesn't have enough moisture, it can cling to the surface of your eye. This can happen if you’ve worn them too long, fallen asleep with them in, or haven’t used enough rewetting drops. Sometimes, a lens might shift off-center or under your eyelid during the day. Torn lenses or rigid hard lenses can also feel stuck due to shape or suction. The good news is, most of these situations aren’t harmful and can be fixed at home.
Quick steps if your contact lens is stuck
- Wash your hands with soap and water
- Use rewetting drops or sterile saline solution
- Blink gently and massage your eyelid
- Look in the opposite direction of where the lens might be
- If it's still stuck after 10 to 15 minutes, contact an eye doctor
Start by washing your hands
Before doing anything, always wash your hands with soap and water (and dry it). Don’t try to touch your eye with dirty fingers it can cause irritation or infection.
How to remove a soft contact lens stuck on your eye
This is usually caused by dryness, especially if you accidentally napped or slept in your contacts. Here’s what to do:
- Wash your hands thoroughly
- Use rewetting drops or saline solution to rinse your eye
- Blink a few times to help loosen the lens
- Gently close your eye and massage your eyelid in a circular motion
- Wait and repeat if needed it may take up to 10 to 15 minutes
- Once the lens moves, carefully remove it with clean fingers
How to remove a soft contact lens that moved off-center
If your lens has shifted and you can’t see it, but you feel it, try this:
- Look in the opposite direction of where you think the lens is (e.g. if it’s under your upper lid, look down)
- Use saline drops to re-lubricate your eye
- Gently massage the eyelid to help move the lens back to the center
- Once it’s centered, remove it as usual
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How to remove a torn contact lens or piece stuck in your eye
If a piece of your lens broke off and is still in your eye, here’s what to do:
- Use rewetting drops or sterile eye wash to flush your eye
- Blink several times to move the piece to the corner of your eye
- If it's visible, gently remove it with clean fingers
- Do not rub your eyes or use tools like tweezers
- Keep all lens pieces to check if the full lens has been removed
If you’re unsure whether all pieces are out or your eye still feels irritated, see an eye doctor immediately.
How to remove a hard contact lens stuck in your eye
Hard lenses need a gentler touch. Don’t rub your eye, this can scratch your cornea. Instead:
- Use your fingertip to press next to the edge of the lens to break suction
- If you have a lens remover tool (suction cup), use it as directed
- If the lens won’t come out, don’t force it, see an eye care professional
When to see an eye doctor
It’s always better to get help if:
- You can’t remove the lens after several tries
- Your eye is red, painful, or still blurry after removal
- You’re not sure if all torn pieces came out
Contact your optometrist or visit urgent care if needed. Your eyes are delicate, don’t take chances.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. If you're in pain or unsure what to do, always speak to a qualified eye doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I fall asleep with contacts in and they feel stuck?
Use rewetting drops immediately when you wake up. Blink several times and gently massage your eyelid. Never force the lens out when your eyes feel dry.
Is it possible for a contact lens to get lost behind your eye?
No, a contact lens cannot go behind your eye. It may get stuck under your eyelid but can usually be flushed or massaged out safely.
Can I use water to flush out a contact lens?
No. Tap water isn’t sterile and may contain bacteria. Always use saline solution, sterile eye wash, or contact lens-approved rewetting drops.
My eye still feels weird after removing the lens what should I do?
If it still feels like something is in your eye or you’re seeing blurry, call your eye doctor. You may have a scratch or missed a lens piece.
Can I wear contacts again after one gets stuck?
Only after your eye feels completely normal. If your eye is red, sore, or irritated, give it a break or see an optometrist first.
Take care of your eyes
Stuck contacts are common and usually easy to fix with a little patience. Be gentle, take your time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your eyes will thank you.
