A contact lens may occasionally become dislocated from its normal riding position. Dislocation of a contact lens occurs when the contact lens is dry, when it is fit poorly or, most often, when the eye is rubbed by the lens wearer. The diagram shown here is a cross-section of the human eye. Notice that the space between the eye and the lid extends only a short distance toward the back of the eye. You can see that while a contact lens my become dislocated under the upper or lower lids, it will never become dislodged completely behind the eye.
If you think you may have a contact lens or just piece of a contact lens dislocated in the eye, seek care immediately. Dislodged lens materials should be recovered as soon as possible. Poor lid function, lid tissue irritation, and even infection can result from dislocated contact lens material. The eye doctors at Iowa EyeCare in Cedar Rapids, Marion and Robins, Iowa, are willing to assist you at any time. Iowa EyeCare has a doctor on-call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Please call 319-377-2222 if you need our help.
If you have more questions about contact lenses go to Iowa EyeCare’s Contact Lens FAQ Page.
If you are interested in learning more about LASIK surgery in Cedar Rapids, visit Iowa EyeCare’s LASIK FAQ Page.
