I Dropped My Contact Lens on the Floor – What to Do Now

It’s happened to the best of us. You’re in a rush, maybe reaching for something on a high shelf, and BAM! You feel a sudden, unsettling emptiness on your eye. You’ve dropped your contact lens. But before you panic, let me assure you, it’s not the end of the world. Contact lenses are surprisingly resilient, and with a little care, you can likely find your lens and pop it back in your eye without too much fuss.

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The real challenge comes when that dropped lens lands on a less-than-ideal surface. We’ve all been there, fumbling around on the floor like a blindfolded toddler trying to find our missing toy. But fear not, this article will guide you through the process of retrieving your contact lens, cleaning it, and getting it back in your eye with minimal drama.

Retrieval Mission: Finding Your Contact Lens

The Search Party

The first step is to find your missing lens. This can be a little tricky, especially if you’re dealing with a light-colored lens against a dusty floor. Here’s where a little strategy comes in:

• Start with the obvious: Look around the spot where you felt your lens come off.
• Use a light source: Shine a flashlight across the floor to catch the reflection off the lens.
• Try a dustpan and brush: A soft-bristled brush will help sweep up any debris and might catch your lens with it.
• Engage your senses: Often, you can feel the lens under your finger.

If your lens is on a surface like plush carpet, be prepared for a hunt. Carpets have a tendency to swallow up small objects. Don’t give up hope! Try using a vacuum cleaner. Be sure to cover the vacuum nozzle with a piece of clean pantyhose to catch the lens and prevent the vacuum from sucking it up.

Cleaning Up

Once you’ve found your lens, it’s time to clean it. The best way to clean a contact lens is with a sterile contact lens solution. You can use the solution in your contact lens case or purchase a small bottle of solution just for cleaning purposes. If you’re in a pinch and don’t have any solution, you can try rinsing your lens with sterile saline solution or even plain water. But be sure to cleanse the lens with solution as soon as you’re able, as this will help prevent infections.

For a quick and easy cleaning method, use your fingers to gently rub the lens against the palm of your hand. Avoid using anything abrasive like cotton balls or tissues that can scratch the lens. Once you’ve cleaned the lens, rinse it thoroughly with solution, and you’re ready to reinsert it.

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Reinsertion: Getting Your Lens Back in Your Eye

The technique for reinserting your lens depends on your contact lens type and your personal preference. Here are a few methods:

Method 1: The Classic Technique

• Clean hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Lens on your fingertip: Gently place the lens on your index fingertip with its concave side up.
• Open your eye: Look up and use your other hand to lift your upper eyelid.
• Focus on the center: Focus on a point straight ahead and, with your index finger, bring the lens closer to your eye, aligning it with your pupil.
• Blink and be gentle: Blink once or twice to help the lens settle into place.

Method 2: The “Spoon” Method

This method provides more control during insertion.

• Wash your hands: Wash your hands with soap and water.
• Lens on your fingertip: Place the lens on your index fingertip, with its concave side up.
• Spoon placement: Use a clean, smooth-edged spoon, like a dessert spoon, to gently hold your lower eyelid down.
• Bring the lens in: Gently approach your eye with the lens, aiming for the center of your pupil.
• Blink it in: Blink gently to help the lens settle.

This method works especially well for those who struggle with the classic technique or have dry eyes.

Expert Advice: How to Avoid Dropping Your Contact Lenses in the First Place

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to help you keep those lenses firmly in place:

• Avoid rushing: Take your time when removing or inserting your lenses, especially if you’re in a hurry. Rushing can lead to fumbling and dropped lenses.
• Practice proper techniques: Master the techniques for handling and insertion to minimize the risk of dislodging your lens.
. Keep your lenses clean: Regular cleaning is essential to prevent buildup and discomfort, which can increase the chances of your lens slipping out.
• Be mindful of your environment: Avoid wearing your contact lenses when participating in activities likely to cause the lens to pop out. For example, while playing sports, swimming, or going for a run.

Remember, every time you touch your lens, it’s a potential opportunity for bacteria to be introduced. Taking these precautions will help keep your eyes healthy and your lenses securely in place.

FAQs: Your Contact Lens Questions Answered

Q: What if my contact lens gets lost?

Don’t worry, it happens. If you’ve truly lost your lens, remove the other one and contact your eye doctor. They can help you find a replacement.

Q: Should I wear my contact lens if it has been on the floor?

It’s always a good idea to clean a lens thoroughly with solution after it has been on the floor. If your eye feels irritated or you notice any changes in your vision, remove the lens and consult your eye doctor.

Q: Why did my contact lens come out?

There are many reasons why your contact lens might have come out. Dry eyes, incorrect lens fit, or even an eyelash can dislodge a lens. If you frequently experience contact lens dislodgement, consult your eye doctor to ensure your lenses are the right fit and that there aren’t any underlying eye conditions playing a role.

Q: How long can I wear my contact lens after it’s been on the floor?

While it’s safe to wear a clean lens, it’s best to be cautious. Ideally, keep the lens insertion time to the minimum recommended by your eye doctor. If you are unsure, reach out to your eye doctor for guidance.

I Dropped My Contact Lens On The Floor

Conclusion

Dropping your contact lens can be a frustrating experience, but it doesn’t have to be a major crisis. By following these simple tips, you can retrieve, clean, and reinsert your lens with confidence. Remember to stay mindful of your contact lens hygiene and consult your eye doctor if you encounter any issues. But if you’re still feeling nervous about this whole contact lens thing, maybe consider switching to glasses – at least until you master the art of not dropping them!

Are you a contact lens wearer? Have you ever dropped your lens on the floor? Let us know your experiences in the comments!