Wearing contact lenses may need a bit of adaptation, unlike eyeglasses. Follow the doctor’s instructions and some of these hacks to make the process easier. Here are a few points to help you smoothly transition into contact lenses.

Get a Fitting

Get a contact lens fitting before wearing contact lenses. During the fitting, the doctor will get the circumference and curvature of your eye. They will also measure your pupil and evaluate your tear film. All these will help them ensure that you get contact lenses that fit. Otherwise, they may fall out if your contact lenses are too big. If they are too small, they could injure your cornea.

Wearing Your Contact Lenses

Wash your hands before wearing your contact lenses and rinse and dry them thoroughly. Use a lint-free cloth to dry your hands to avoid particles from getting into your eyes. Pick one of your lenses by sliding it to the tip of your middle or index finger. Check for tears or damaged spots. Ensure you rinse it with a contact lens solution.

Hold your upper eyelid with your non-dominant hand. The dominant hand should pull down your lower lid using the ring or middle finger as you place the contact lens. You can look up at the ceiling as you do this, shut your eyes, and roll them around to help the contact settle. 

Removal of Contact Lenses

Again, you should wash and dry your hands with a lint-free towel. Clean the storage case by pouring out any leftover solution. You can air dry it or use a lint-free cloth. Once again, stand in front of a mirror and open your eye. 

Bring the lens to the white of your eye and gently pinch it out. Use the pads of your thumb and index finger. Ensure you start with the same side every time to avoid confusion—the left or right eye, and stick to the routine.

Is Your Contact Lens Inside Out?

Tell the difference by looking at the curvature. If it resembles a soup bowl rather than half of a ball, you are wearing it wrong. It should form a perfect U rather than flare out at the edges.

Contact Lenses and Makeup

To avoid applying makeup on your contact lenses, wear them before putting them on. You will not transfer lotions and oils that could blur your vision. Avoid using eyeliner on your waterline. Instead, do it in the area away from your eye.

When removing your contact lenses, start by removing the makeup first. You will avoid getting your contacts dirty. Avoid infections by replacing your makeup every three months. Otherwise, they become a breeding ground for bacteria.

Caring for Your Lenses

Take care of your lenses by cleaning the storage case with warm soapy water. Do this once a week. You may also need to replace the case every three months to protect your lenses from any bacteria that may accumulate. Avoid wearing your contact lenses when sick, as you may spread germs to your eyes. Also, remember to blink often. It keeps your lenses moist.

For more information on contact lenses, visit SeePort Optometry at our office in North Port, Florida. Call (941) 876-4400 to book an appointment today.