Tips for First-Time Scleral Lens Wearers: Insertion, Removal, and Comfort

Starting scleral lenses can feel intimidating at first, but with the right technique and a little patience, most patients adjust well. At Drs. Hiura & Hiura Optometrists, we fit scleral lenses for patients in San Francisco who need clear, stable vision and added comfort for conditions like dry eye, keratoconus, irregular corneas, or hard-to-fit eyes.

Scleral lenses are larger than standard soft contacts and rest on the white part of the eye rather than directly on the cornea. This design creates a smooth optical surface and a fluid reservoir that can help keep the eye more comfortable throughout the day.
 

Start With Clean Hands And The Right Setup

Before inserting or removing your scleral lenses, wash your hands thoroughly and dry them with a lint-free towel. Work over a clean, flat surface, and avoid inserting lenses over an open sink unless the drain is covered.

It also helps to set out your supplies before you begin. This may include your scleral lens case, preservative-free saline, approved cleaning solution, mirror, and insertion or removal plunger if recommended.
 

Tips For Easier Scleral Lens Insertion

Scleral lens insertion takes practice, especially because the lens must be filled with preservative-free saline before it goes on the eye. The goal is to keep the lens full and avoid trapping air bubbles underneath.

Helpful tips include:

• Fill the lens completely with preservative-free saline before insertion
• Keep your face parallel to the floor so the fluid stays in the lens
• Hold both eyelids open firmly to prevent blinking
• Look straight down into the lens or toward a mirror
• Reinsert the lens if you notice bubbles, discomfort, or blurry vision

If your lens feels uncomfortable right away, remove it, rinse it as directed, refill it, and try again.
 

Removing Your Scleral Lenses Safely

Removal should never feel forceful. If you use a small removal plunger, place it near the lower edge of the lens rather than directly in the center. This helps break the seal gently. Pulling straight out from the center may create more suction and make removal harder.

If the lens feels stuck, use lubricating drops, blink a few times, and try again. Avoid using fingernails near the lens or eye.
 

Improving Comfort Throughout The Day

Some mild awareness is normal when you are first learning to wear scleral lenses, but pain, redness, sudden blur, or strong irritation should not be ignored. In San Francisco, we help patients fine-tune their fit, wearing schedule, and care routine so their lenses feel as comfortable as possible.

Dryness or fogging may happen if debris builds up in the fluid reservoir. In some cases, removing the lens, rinsing it, and refilling it with fresh saline can help. Persistent fogging may mean the lens fit needs to be adjusted.
 

Give Yourself Time To Build Confidence

Like any new vision correction option, scleral lenses come with a learning curve. Many first-time wearers feel more comfortable after a few days or weeks of consistent practice. Try not to rush the process, and follow the wearing schedule recommended during your fitting.

Our team is here to answer questions, review your technique, and make adjustments when needed.
 

For personalized scleral lens care in San Francisco, CA, contact Drs. Hiura & Hiura Optometrists at 1418 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109 by calling (415) 792-1900.