You’re heading out the door, adjusting your contact lenses when, wait, did one of them just fall out? It’s surprising, a little annoying, and not as uncommon as you might think. While contact lenses are designed to fit securely on your eyes, they can occasionally fall out. Whether you’re new to contacts or have worn them for years, it’s a common question with a few simple answers.
Knowing why contact lenses might fall out, how to prevent it, and what to do if it happens can help you wear them with more comfort and confidence.
Understanding Contact Lens Fit
Contact lenses rest on the cornea, with a thin layer of tear film in between that helps maintain comfort and vision quality. They’re shaped to match your eye’s unique curvature so they move slightly as you blink, staying aligned without slipping.
A proper fit accounts for:
- Corneal shape
- Tear quality
- Blink pattern
- Lens material
During a contact lens fitting, your optometrist will take measurements and assess lens movement to assess comfort and fit. A lens that’s too tight may feel fine but limit oxygen flow, while one that’s too loose may shift out of place.
How Contact Lens Safety Affects Fit & Comfort
Contact lens safety isn’t just about hygiene, it’s also about comfort, clarity, and a secure fit. When lenses are worn too long, stored improperly, or exposed to debris, they can irritate the eye and shift out of place.
A clean, well-maintained lens surface supports healthy tears and reduces friction, helping your lenses stay centered and comfortable all day. That’s why daily routines like cleaning reusable lenses, replacing your case regularly, and using fresh solution matter as much as the fit itself.
Can Contact Lenses Actually Fall Out?
Yes, contact lenses can fall out of your eyes, though it’s uncommon when they’re worn and fitted correctly. Soft lenses, especially daily disposables, are designed to stay put. However, sudden eye rubbing, dryness, or poorly fitted lenses can cause them to slip or pop out.
Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses are smaller and sit closer to the center of the cornea, making them slightly more likely to dislodge if you blink hard or make abrupt eye movements.
It’s important to understand that when a lens “falls out,” it may not hit the floor. It can also shift under your eyelid or onto the white part of your eye, making it feel lost even though it’s still there.
What to Do if a Lens Falls Out
If your lens falls out:
- Stop and find a clean, dry place to wash your hands.
- Inspect the lens for dirt, tears, or damage.
- Rinse your contact lens with fresh contact lens solution (never tap water).
- If it looks fine, you can reinsert it.
- If it’s torn or dried out, discard it and use a fresh one.
If you can’t find the lens, don’t panic. It cannot get lost behind your eye. Try using a mirror to examine your eye and lids, and if you’re unsure, contact your optometrist for help.
Why Contact Lenses Fall Out
Here are some common reasons lenses fall out or feel like they’ve popped out:
- Poor fit: A lens that doesn’t match your eye’s curvature can move too much.
- Dry eye: Not enough moisture can cause the lens to shift or stick to your lid.
- Improper blinking: Incomplete or infrequent blinking (especially during screen time) can destabilize the lens.
- Eye rubbing or trauma: Touching or bumping your eye can easily dislodge a lens.
- Wearing lenses too long: Overwear can cause discomfort and increase lens movement.
- Debris under the lens: Dust or allergens can lift the lens off the cornea slightly.
Understanding these triggers can help you respond appropriately and take steps to avoid them.
How to Prevent Your Lenses from Falling Out
The good news? Most lens falls are preventable with simple habits:
- Get a proper fitting: Work with your optometrist to choose lenses that suit your eyes and lifestyle.
- Stick to your wear schedule: Don’t overwear lenses, and never sleep in them unless directed.
- Use rewetting drops: These help maintain a smooth, moist surface.
- Avoid touching your eyes: Especially with unwashed hands.
- Stay hydrated: Dry eyes can cause lens instability.
- Be aware of screen time: Blink often and use lubricating drops if needed.
If you’re new to contacts, your optometrist can walk you through insertion, removal, and safety tips during your in-office training. A personalized routine helps set you up for success.
A Secure Fit Starts with the Right Care
While contacts can fall out occasionally, they’re designed to stay in place when properly fitted and cared for. A comfortable, secure fit begins with the right exam, good habits, and a little guidance.
At Total Vision Richmond, we provide personalized contact lens fittings and in-office training to help you feel confident in your daily routine. Whether it’s your first time wearing contacts or you’re troubleshooting an issue, we’re here to help.
Book an appointment today to learn what works for your eyes and enjoy clear, comfortable vision every day.
