More than 30 million people in the U.S.  wear contact lenses and it’s easy to see why. They are freeing, allowing wearers to break out from behind the barrier that separates them from the world. They don’t interfere with sports or outdoor activities, and can even give you a whole new look via colored contacts, which allow you to change your eye color. 

While wearing contacts come with many benefits, there are potential problems that can occur. Aside from infection or irritation, there are times when your lens may feel as if it is stuck in your eye, or even missing.

Can Contact Lenses Get Lost in Your Eye?

No, it's not possible for your lens to get lost behind your eye. In most cases, the lens has slipped out of place or even fallen out. If this happens to you, one of the first things you should do is wash your hands. This helps you not to transfer bacteria into your eyes. Then, here are some simple approaches you can use to recover your contact lens:

1. Confirm if your lens has fallen out. If you can still feel the lens in your eye, then it may have just slipped out of place. If that’s not the case, then carefully check your clothing and the area around you. And be careful how you step!   
2. Add contact lens rewetting drops to your eye. If your eyes are too dry, the lens could just have gotten stuck. Blink your eye to see if the lens returns to its correct position. Repeat this a few times if needed. Often, simply wetting the lens and blinking is enough to move the lens into a position where it can be easily removed.
3. Massage your eyelid. Look down and then place your chin against your chest. Gently rub your closed eyelid to manipulate or move the lens. In most cases, it will move freely into a better area where you can access it. It may take a few attempts, but moving your eyes around might move the lens into a place where you can reach it with a fingertip.
4. Move your eyes. Try looking in the direction opposite to where the lens is stuck. So, if your lens is stuck on the left side of your eye, then look to the right. Another trick is to roll your eyes around in a circle. This movement could be enough to bounce the lens back where it belongs. It may take a few tries, but the lens will generally shift back into place.

Most lenses go back into place on their own with one of the above methods; if none of these techniques work, or if your eye becomes red or painful, be sure to call your eye doctor for help with removal.  

In conclusion, while contacts are simple and easy to use, they still require knowledge and diligent care. Knowing a few techniques to help when they get stuck will also be helpful in making sure your vision is at its best. To prevent your lens from getting stuck, a healthy practice for contact wearers is to use lens rewetting drops throughout the day. Also, never sleep with you contacts that aren’t designed for it and try not to wear your contacts for longer than eight to 12 hours daily, or the length of time recommended by your doctor.