An Optometrist's Guide to Inserting and Removing Scleral Lenses

Before You Begin

Washing your hands before inserting scleral lenses 

When dealing with any type of contact lenses including scleral lenses, whether you're putting them in or taking them out, you're going to be touching around your eyes, so make sure you wash your hands thoroughly. Use mild soap so as not to irritate the eyes. 

Drying your hands before inserting scleral lenses

Tap water should never come in contact with your contact lenses as it can lead to serious eye infection. After you have washed your hands, dry them thoroughly. To reduce the chances of getting lint on your lens, use a towel that is lint free. 

Identify which lens is left and right

Next, you want to identify which contact lens you're going to be putting in. It is recommended to insert the contact lens on the dominant hand side, as it is typically more comfortable and easy to control. For example, if you are right-handed, it is recommended to start with the right eye. By doing this, you don't have to worry about remembering which lens is which if you mix them up. Some brands do have little laser markings on them, including little dots that will tell you which eye belongs to which, usually there's one dot for the right eye and sometimes you'll see two dots for the left eye. But ultimately, if you do mix them up and you're not sure, contact our eye clinic at (212) 752-6930 for help.

Using a plunger or your fingers

There are a few different ways to insert scleral lenses, however, most patients prefer to use a little plunger with a suction cup also called a DMV.  A pro tip is if you get a plunger and it has a rounded of bottom, you can go ahead and use the scissors to snip that off because afterward you will have a DMV that has a little hole in the bottom. And with this little hole you can see a light passing through it and it acts as a guide for you when you're putting in the lens. Another benefit of cutting out the bottom is to make sure that there is no suction on the lens when putting it in. If you are doing this method you will need one plunger for inserting the lens and another for removing the lens. 

If you prefer using your fingers or cannot find your plunger/DMV tool, we recommend using three fingers like a tripod to keep your scleral lens steady and flat. 

Check your lenses for damage 

It is always a good idea to visually check your lens for any chips, scratches, cloudy deposits or buildup or damage before putting them in your eye. As a general rule scleral lenses that are responsibly cleaned and maintained should last you for a year or longer, but it is a good idea to get in the habit of visually checking your lens. If you notice any build up, follow the instructions our eye doctor provided you for cleaning your lenses. If you notice any damage at all, visit our optometrist before using your lenses to prevent possible abrasions, pain, or infections. 

Removing Scleral Lenses

Wash Hands

Start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove any dirt, oils or other substances that may have come into contact with your hands. This is important because anything on your hands can easily transfer to your eyes and cause irritation or infection.

Find Well-Lit Area

Find a well-lit area, and look straight ahead. This will help you see what you're doing and prevent you from accidentally poking or scratching your eye. If desired, you can position yourself in front of a mirror for better visibility.

Choose Removal Method

Choose the removal method you prefer: either with your fingers or with the aid of a plunger. Both methods are effective and it's up to you which one you find easiest to use.

Wet Plunger Tip (if using plunger)

If you're using a plunger, wet the tip with saline solution. This will help prevent the plunger from sticking to your lens, and also help loosen the lens from your eye. Place the plunger onto the lower third of the lens, making sure it's securely attached.

Remove Lens with Plunger (if using plunger)

Gently press the plunger onto your eye, and then pull up and out to remove the lens. This method uses suction to release the lens from your eye. It's important to be gentle and not to pull too hard, as this can cause discomfort or even damage to your eye.

Remove Lens with Fingers (if using fingers)

If you're using your fingers, place two fingertips on either side of the lens. This will give you good control over the lens and help you avoid accidentally poking or scratching your eye.

Gently break the seal from your eye and remove the lens by lifting it off the eye. This can be done by gently sliding your fingers under the edge of the lens and lifting it up. It's important to be gentle and not to pull too hard, as this can cause discomfort or even damage to your eye.

Be Prepared to Catch Lens

Be ready to catch the lens as it pops out. Scleral lenses are large and can be somewhat difficult to handle, so it's important to have your hands ready to catch the lens as it comes out.

Repeat the process for the other eye if necessary.

Clean and Store Lenses

After removing both lenses, clean and store them as directed by your eye care professional. Proper care and storage of your lenses will help ensure they last a long time and remain comfortable to wear.