Getting Started With Scleral Lenses: Insertion and Removal Tips

Scleral contact lenses can provide clearer, more comfortable vision for people with keratoconus, irregular corneas, dry eye, and other conditions that make traditional contact lenses difficult to wear. However, learning how to insert and remove these larger, specialty lenses takes practice. At Tree City Eyecare, we help patients in Boise, ID, develop the skills and confidence needed to handle their scleral lenses safely.

Preparing to Handle Your Scleral Lenses

Before inserting or removing your scleral lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and water, then dry them with a clean, lint-free towel. Work over a clean, flat surface with good lighting and a mirror.

Keep your prescribed cleaning solution, preservative-free saline, and insertion and removal tools within reach. Never use tap water or saliva to rinse or store your lenses, as these can introduce harmful microorganisms.

How to Insert Scleral Contact Lenses

Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses hold a reservoir of fluid between the lens and the cornea. Proper insertion helps maintain this fluid layer and prevents trapped air bubbles.

Follow these steps when inserting your lenses:

• Prepare the lens: Inspect it for damage, then clean and rinse it according to your eye doctor's instructions.
• Fill with saline: Completely fill the lens bowl with sterile, preservative-free saline approved for scleral lens filling.
• Position the lens: Balance it on three fingertips or use your recommended insertion tool.
• Hold your eyelids open: Lean forward, look directly down toward the lens, and gently pull your upper and lower eyelids apart.
• Apply the lens: Slowly bring the lens toward your eye until it makes contact, then release your eyelids and blink gently.

After insertion, check that your vision is clear and the lens feels comfortable. If you notice an air bubble, remove the lens, refill it, and try again.

How to Remove Scleral Lenses Safely

Removing scleral lenses requires breaking the gentle suction that holds them in place. Start by washing and drying your hands. If you use a small suction removal tool, position it near the lower edge of the lens rather than directly in the center. Gently lift the lens edge to release the seal before removing it.

Avoid pulling forcefully or pressing the tool against your eye. If the lens feels stuck, use lubricating drops recommended by your eye doctor and seek guidance if removal remains difficult.

Once removed, clean and disinfect the lens using your prescribed products before storing it in fresh disinfecting solution.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

New scleral lens wearers sometimes experience difficulties during their first few attempts. Common mistakes include using the wrong filling solution, leaving air bubbles beneath the lens, or applying too much pressure during removal.

Never sleep in your scleral lenses unless specifically instructed by your eye doctor. If you experience persistent redness, pain, unusual light sensitivity, or changes in vision, remove your lenses and contact your eye care provider promptly.

Building Confidence With Scleral Lens Wear

Learning proper scleral lens insertion and removal techniques is an important part of successful contact lens wear. During your specialty contact lens fitting, we provide personalized instruction and help you practice until you understand the process.

If you're considering scleral contact lenses or need help adjusting to your new lenses, schedule a specialty contact lens appointment with Tree City Eyecare to get started. Visit our office in Boise, ID, or call (208) 375-3871 to book an appointment today.