Handling scleral lenses is a skill, not a talent — and almost everyone feels all thumbs for the first few days. With a little practice, insertion and removal become a 30-second routine. Here’s the beginner-friendly version of what your doctor will teach you in person.
What you’ll need
- Your scleral lenses
- Preservative-free saline made for filling scleral lenses
- An insertion tool — a small stand (O-ring) or a hollow plunger
- A small solid plunger for removal
- A clean mirror, and freshly washed, lint-free hands
Always wash and dry your hands well before touching your lenses, and work over a clean towel rather than an open drain.
Inserting your scleral lens
- Place the lens bowl-side up on your insertion stand or balanced on your fingers/plunger.
- Fill the bowl to the brim with preservative-free saline so it forms a slight dome. A full bowl is what prevents bubbles.
- Lean forward so your face is parallel to the floor and you’re looking straight down into the mirror.
- Hold your top and bottom eyelids open with your free hand so your lashes are out of the way.
- Bring the lens straight up to your eye and press it gently onto the surface. Keep looking down until it seats.
- Look in the mirror to confirm there’s no large air bubble. A clear, even reservoir means you’re set.
Removing your scleral lens
Wash your hands again. Lightly moisten the small solid removal plunger and press it onto the lower third of the lens — not the center — then gently rock and pull it off. Pressing too high can create suction that’s hard to release. Many patients also learn a tool-free method using their eyelids; your doctor will show you whichever works best for you.
Beating the dreaded bubble
A bubble under the lens usually means it wasn’t filled enough or went on at an angle. If you see one, take the lens off, refill it completely, and try again with your face fully parallel to the floor. It gets easier fast.
Midday fogging or discomfort
If vision gets hazy after several hours, the reservoir may have collected debris. Removing, rinsing, refilling, and reinserting usually clears it. Persistent fogging is worth mentioning at your next visit. For the full care routine, see scleral lens care: cleaning and solutions, and for what early wear feels like, are scleral lenses comfortable?
When to call us
Some awareness is normal at first, but sharp pain, significant redness, light sensitivity, or sudden blur are not — remove the lens and contact us. We’re always happy to schedule a quick handling lesson if you’re struggling; it’s a normal part of getting started.
Just started with scleral lenses and need a hand?
Dr. Shira Kresch offers complimentary specialty consultations at Michigan Contact Lens in Southfield, serving patients across Metro Detroit. We’ll map your corneas and tell you honestly whether scleral lenses are right for you.
