How to put contact lenses in and how to take contact lenses out?
One of the main questions and concerns first time contact lens wearers have is “how to put contact lenses in?” and “how to take contact lenses out?”There are numerous techniques out there for the insertion and removal of contact lenses. As part of your initial contact lens consultation, after you have been fitted with contact lenses, you will be taught how to insert and remove your contact lenses. It is vital that you are able to do this independently in order for you to take your contact lenses home and complete your trial. During your fitting appointment, your practitioner will teach you the most commonly used methods for the insertion and removal of contact lenses.
It is always worthwhile looking at videos online for a visual understanding of how to insert and remove your contact lenses prior to attending your appointment. This will ensure you are better prepared and can often make the process of learning how to put in your contact lenses and how to take out your contact lenses easier.
How to put your contact lenses in - our step by step guide
When you try to put your contact lenses in and you're not familiar with the method yet, it might be a little stressful. We promise that the more you do it, the easier it gets. Normally, you will need to follow these simple steps:- Wash your hands prior to handling your contact lenses
- Once you have checked they are the right way around, place the lens on the tip of your index finger (right handed if you’re right handed left hand if you’re left handed)
- Pull your lower eyelid down with the middle finger of the hand handling the lens. Using your other hand hold up your upper eye lid and bring the tip of your index finger with the lens in place towards the surface of your eye.
- Gently make contact with the front surface of your eye and move your finger away
- The lens should be in place on the front surface of the eye, slowly let go off the eye lids and move the eye around to allow the lens to settle
- Gently blink a few times
How to remove your contact lenses - our step by step guide
Removing contact lenses is usually easier than inserting them. You should do as follows:
- Wash your hands prior to handling your contact lenses
- Pull your lower lid down with your middle finger (right hand if right handed and left hand if left handed)
- Using your other hand pull up your upper eyelid
- With the thumb and index finger of your hand holding your lower eye lid place both fingers onto the lens and pinch it off the surface of the eye
How much do contact lenses cost?
There are several types of contact lenses on the market, such as dailies and monthlies, and their prices range from budget to higher end. The cost of contact lenses varies depending on the type of contact lens you are purchasing, which also depends on the type of correction you require. Contact lens materials as well as modality of wear can all effect the price of the lenses. Contact lenses are generally an affordable alternative to spectacles and there is something out there available to suit most budgets.
At your initial contact lens fitting, our practitioners will go through the different types of contact lens options taking into account your budget, frequency of wear, and reasons for wear. Having discussed and agreed with you on the right contact lenses, they will proceed with the fitting.
Are contact lenses safe?
Another question that patients usually ask when considering contact lenses is: “are contact lenses safe to use?” In most instances where contact lenses have been fitted appropriately by a qualified practitioner, contact lens wearers do not encounter any problems.
Good compliance with regards to general usage, cleaning, disposal, and wearing schedule is also crucial for contact lens wearers. If simple hygiene rules and optician recommendations are followed, then it is unlikely that one will have any adverse reactions or issues with their contact lenses.
It is vital that contact lens-related instructions are followed as in the event that they are not, there is a risk of complications which can sometimes be sight threatening. This can also be the case when contact lenses are purchased without a qualified practitioner fitting the contact lens for the patient. If the contact lens is too tight or too loose on the eye, is generally not fitting well, or is not being used appropriately, there is risk involved.
Advantages of contact lenses
Contact lenses have several advantages, which is why many spectacle wearers use them. Here are a few reasons for you to start your contact lens journey today:
- You can go spectacle free
- You get a wider field of view and sharper vision
- You can experience greater comfort while doing sport
- Your eyes (and make up) will be more visible
- You can wear sunglasses without prescription lenses
To try contact lens, call into one of our stores and our staff will be happy to talk you through the process and book you in for your initial contact lens consultation and fitting. Following this, we will ensure you are confident and competent with putting in your contact lenses and taking them out, and a trial will be completed. For more information and to book a fitting appointment, please get in touch
or visit your nearest practice and a member of staff will be happy to assist you.
