An inside-out contact lens will have a slightly flared or bowl-like edge instead of a smooth, curved shape. Checking this before inserting your lenses can help prevent discomfort and blurry vision.
Contact lenses offer a convenient, comfortable solution for improving vision. Whether you’re a seasoned contact lens wearer or trying them for the first time, you might encounter challenges like verifying that your lenses are inserted correctly. One common issue? Realizing your contact lens is inside out after inserting it. Luckily, there are simple ways to determine if your lens is inside out and fix it immediately.
How Should Contact Lenses Fit?
Contact lenses are designed to sit comfortably on the surface of your eye, almost like they’re not there at all. When positioned correctly, they help to provide clearer vision without irritation. However, even the most advanced lenses can’t deliver a good experience if they’re oriented the wrong way.
If a lens is inside out, it can disrupt your day by causing discomfort and blurry or uneven vision. Thankfully, the signs of a misaligned lens are generally easy to spot, and with a few simple steps, the issue can be fixed.
Signs a Contact Lense is Inside Out?
If you’re unsure whether your contact lens is inside out, keep an eye out for these telltale signs:
- Eye discomfort or irritation: Wearing an inside-out lens often feels unnatural or gritty, prompting you to blink more than usual.
- Blurred or distorted vision: If your eyesight hasn’t improved as expected, your lens might not be properly aligned.
- A sensation of something feeling off: Your lenses should feel like they’re not there. If you feel them constantly, there may be an issue.
- The lens moves around too much: A lens that doesn’t stay put could be upside down, affecting its fit and performance.
- Cloudy or unclear vision: An inside-out lens won’t sit properly on your cornea, leading to obstructed or uneven clarity.
Are Contact Lenses Reversible?
Fortunately, most contact lenses are soft and flexible, making it easy to flip them back into place. Soft lenses, in particular, are engineered to provide comfort but can inadvertently turn inside out during handling or cleaning. The good news? A quick check can help you resolve this problem.
Here are three foolproof ways to tell if your contact lens is the right way round.
Check the Shape
Perhaps, the simplest way to determine the orientation of your lens is by inspecting its shape.
- Place the lens on the tip of your index finger with the edge facing upward.
- Observe the edges:
- Inside out: If the edges flare outward, creating a rim or resembling a bowl with a lip, the lens is inside out.
- Correct orientation: The lens will look like a smooth, rounded bowl, with no rim or outward flare.
Set up bright lighting to ensure you can see the shape clearly.
Look for Markings
Many contact lenses feature laser-etched markings, such as numbers or letters, to help identify their orientation.
- Hold the lens up to a light source.
- Look for these tiny markings near the edge of the lens.
- If the markings appear backwards or reversed, your lens is inside out.
- Flip the lens and check again to see if the characters are facing the right way.
This simple trick can save you time and discomfort.
Try the Taco Test
If the shape and markings are hard to distinguish, you can use the “taco test” to help determine the orientation of your lens.
- Gently pinch the edges of the lens together as though folding it into a taco shell.
- Observe how the sides respond:
- Correct Orientation: The edges will curve inward toward one another.
- Inside Out: The edges will flair outward or resist folding smoothly.
This method is quick, reliable, and easy to perform on the go.
How to Remove Stubborn Contact Lenses?
If you’ve placed your lens inside out and want to remove it, don’t panic. Follow these steps to remove the lens safely and easily:
- Wash and dry your hands: Before touching your eyes, ensure your hands are clean to prevent irritation or infection.
- Blink or use rewetting drops: Apply lubricating eye drops if you feel discomfort. This can help dislodge a stuck lens.
- Look up and slide the lens: Gently pull down your lower eyelid, look upward, and use your fingertip to slide the lens toward the white part of your eye.
- Pinch gently to remove: Lightly pinch the lens between your thumb and forefinger to remove it.
Avoid using sharp objects or tools to remove a lens. If you’re struggling, take a break, add more lubricating drops, and try again.
Finding the Right Contact Lenses For You?
The right fit can make all the difference when using contact lenses. A poorly-fitted lens may cause discomfort, blurry vision, and even long-term eye health issues. That’s why it’s important to schedule a contact lens exam tailored to your specific needs and prescription.
At Toronto Centre Eye Care, our team is here to help you find the right lenses for your eyes. Whether you’re new to contacts or looking to upgrade from your current lenses, we’re here to help! Don’t hesitate to schedule your appointment today!
