How to Put a Contact Lens In (Step-by-Step)

New to contacts—or just need a refresher? With the right technique, inserting lenses is quick, clean, and comfortable. Here’s a step-by-step guide from the OptoDoc team to help you master it.

Before You Start

Wash and dry your hands with non-moisturizing soap. Lint-free towel only.
Work over a clean surface with good lighting. If you’re near a sink, close the drain.
Start with the same eye every time (e.g., right eye) to avoid mix-ups.

Pro tip: Put in your lenses before makeup and after shaving or using hairspray.

Step-by-Step: Soft (Disposable) Contact Lenses

Rinse the lens with fresh multi-purpose solution (not tap water). Place it on the tip of your index finger.
Check the orientation: The lens should look like a perfect bowl. If the edge flares out like a saucer, it’s inside-out—flip it.
Hold your eyelids: With the middle finger of your lens hand, gently pull your lower lid down. With the other hand, hold the upper lashes/lid up. Look straight ahead or slightly up.
Place the lens: Lightly touch the lens to the colored part of your eye or the white just below the pupil. You’ll feel a brief cool sensation.
Release and blink: Slowly release the lids and blink a few times. If vision is hazy, add a rewetting drop and blink again.

If the Lens Feels Uncomfortable

Wash and dry your hands, remove the lens, rinse with solution, inspect for tears or lint, and reinsert.
If it still bothers you, leave it out and wear glasses. Book a quick check at OptoDoc.

Daily Routines That Keep Eyes Happy

Follow your replacement schedule (daily, biweekly, monthly). Never “stretch” lenses.
Use fresh solution every time; don’t “top up” cases.
Rub & rinse reusable lenses as directed; air-dry the case face-down.
No water—no rinsing with tap water, no swimming/showering in lenses.
Give your eyes a break if they feel dry; preservative-free rewetting drops help.

Stop and call us if you notice redness, pain, light sensitivity, or blurred vision that doesn’t clear—especially if symptoms develop quickly. Early care prevents complications.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

RGPs insert a little differently: look straight ahead, place the lens directly on the cornea, then release lids. Removal often uses a gentle lid-tension technique or a small suction tool supplied during your fitting. If you wear—or are curious about—RGPs, we’ll teach you hands-on at OptoDoc.

Why Get Fit at OptoDoc?

Precision fitting: We measure your corneal shape and tear film so lenses center and breathe properly.
Trial lenses & coaching: You’ll practice insertion/removal with our team until you’re confident.
Options for every eye: Daily disposables, toric (astigmatism), multifocal, RGPs, and specialty designs.
Comfort follow-ups: We fine-tune fit, solution, and wearing time to keep eyes healthy.

Ready to try contacts—or want a refresher fitting? We’ve helped thousands in Fort McMurray switch from “nervous” to “no problem.”

Book a Contact Lens Fitting at OptoDoc

OptoDoc • 8600 Franklin Ave Unit 501, Fort McMurray, AB • (780) 714-0099 • myeyes@optodoc.ca

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