Updated: January 20, 2026
It is physically impossible for a contact lens to travel behind the eye. A continuous membrane called the conjunctiva covers the white of the eye and folds back to line the inside of the eyelids.
- Understand that the conjunctiva creates a sealed pocket that prevents anything from moving to the back of the eye socket.
- Recognize that a lens can sometimes slide under the upper or lower eyelid if it is rubbed or dislodged.
- Use a mirror and look in all directions to find a lens that has shifted away from the cornea.
- Apply rewetting drops to hydrate a shifted lens, which makes it easier to move back into place for removal.
- Avoid using objects like cotton swabs to probe under the eyelid because this can cause corneal abrasions.
If a lens feels lost or stuck, stay calm and keep the eye lubricated. If you cannot locate the lens after several attempts, an eye care professional can quickly find and remove it during a brief office visit.
Disclaimer: This information is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References:
Wolffsohn JS, et al. CLEAR, Evidence-based contact lens practice (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33775384/). 2021.
Arshad M, et al. Compliance and behavioral risk factors for contact lens-related microbial keratitis (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33211568/). 2021.
Morgan PB, et al. International Trends in Daily Disposable Contact Lens Prescribing 2000 to 2023 (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38951051/). 2024.
