One of the most common questions scleral lens patients in Las Vegas ask is how to insert their lenses. Insertion can be the most challenging part of wearing scleral lenses, and difficulty with insertion is one of the top reasons patients consider discontinuing lens wear. Having several insertion methods to choose from can help you find the technique that works best for you and build confidence in your daily routine.
The plunger, also called a suction cup, is the most widely used scleral lens insertion tool. Hold the plunger in one hand and place the scleral lens onto the tip of the device. Fill the bowl of the lens with preservative-free saline solution. With your other hand, pull your upper and lower eyelids open as wide as possible. Bring the plunger toward your eye while looking straight ahead or slightly down. When you feel the cool saline solution touch your eye, continue pressing gently until the lens seats on the eye. Release your eyelids and then remove the plunger.
It is a good idea to keep more than one plunger available. Store one at home, one in your bag or purse, and consider keeping a spare at work or in your car so you are prepared if you need to remove and reinsert your lens during the day.
The EZI Ring is a flexible plastic ring that fits on your finger and holds the scleral lens on the pad of your fingertip. This design gives many patients better control than a plunger because the lens sits closer to your hand and moves naturally with your finger.
To use the EZI Ring, slide it onto your index finger with the small bowl resting on the pad of your fingertip. Place the scleral lens into the bowl and fill it with preservative-free saline. Use your free hand to hold your upper eyelid open, and use the remaining fingers on the hand wearing the ring to hold your lower eyelid down. Bring the lens toward your eye and gently place it on the surface. The EZI Ring was invented by the son of a scleral lens patient who needed help inserting a very large 22 mm lens, and it has since helped patients around the world.
Dental orthodontic bands are an inexpensive and disposable option for scleral lens insertion. Remove a band from the package and place it on the pad of your index or middle finger. Set the scleral lens on top of the band, fill the lens bowl with preservative-free saline, and bring the lens toward your eye. Because the bands are single-use, you do not need to worry about cleaning them between uses, and they are easy to keep on hand as a backup insertion method.
The Chio inserter is a dual-purpose device designed for both insertion and removal of scleral and gas-permeable contact lenses. For insertion, attach the plunger end of the device and place it on the pad of your finger for stability. Set the scleral lens onto the plunger, fill it with preservative-free saline, and use your free hand to control your eyelids. Look toward a mirror on the counter or slightly downward and gently place the lens on your eye.
If you have tried other insertion methods without consistent success, a scleral lens stand may be helpful. This device rests on a countertop and features a built-in light and a plunger mount. Place your scleral lens on the stand, fill it with preservative-free saline, and use both hands to hold your upper and lower eyelids open as wide as possible. Lower your face toward the stand and the light until the lens contacts your eye.
A scleral lens stand is especially useful for patients who experience multiple failed insertion attempts each day, have hand tremor or limited dexterity, or frequently get air bubbles trapped under the lens during insertion. By freeing both hands to manage your eyelids, this tool can significantly reduce the time and frustration of your morning lens routine.
At Insight Vision Optometry, Las Vegas, Dr. Stephanie Woo, OD, FAAO, FSLS, Dr. Nathan Schramm, OD, FSLS, FBCLA, and Dr. Thanh Mai, OD, FSLS provide hands-on scleral lens insertion training for every patient. If you are struggling with insertion or want to learn about the best tools for your needs, call 702-747-4070 or visit www.insightvisionlv.com to schedule an appointment.
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