How to insert a scleral lens
1. Remove the lens from its case.
2. Attach a large Scleral suction cup to the front of the lens, or hold the lens with 2-3 fingers. If you are using a suction cup, feel free to cut off the bottom of the cup to expose a hole.
3. Fill the lens to the top with unpreserved single use dose saline (this is important!) . If it is not full to the top you might let air bubbles into the lens.
4. Lean over and tuck your chin into your chest until your face is parallel to the ground. Keep both eyes wide open. Looking at your eye in a flat mirror on a table can help with insertion.
5. Pull back the upper lid with your thumb or finger, and hold it by the eyelashes tightly. Pull the lower eyelid out of the way.
6. Slowly insert the lens into your eye. If you are using a scleral suction cup, SQUEEZE the barrel of the suction cup to release the lens onto your eye .
7. Let go of your eyelids slowly.
8. Check for any air bubbles in the mirror. If there is a bubble, you will have to take the lens off and re insert it.
9. If the lens does not feel comfortable, remove it, clean it and re-insert.
Note: The suction cup should be cleaned with a sterile alcohol swab after each use.
How to remove a scleral lens
Scleral lenses are best removed with a Rigid suction cup lens remover (small size)
1. Moisten the tip of the plunger with non preserved saline
2. Open your eyelids as wide as you can as if you are inserting the scleral lens.
3. Place the plunger directly onto the bottom third corner of the scleral lens and pull it off slowly. The lens should come off easily and not require too much force.
Note: It is normal for the eye to feel slightly dry following lens removal. It is also normal to see some redness for a few minutes after removing your scleral lens.