What happens when a steep lens is too tight on the cornea?

When a steep contact lens is too tight on the cornea, it can lock onto the cornea. This occurs because the fit of the lens is overly aligned with the curvature of the cornea, preventing necessary movement during blinks. A lens that is too tight can cause discomfort, limit tear exchange, and potentially restrict oxygen delivery to the cornea, leading to adverse effects like corneal hypoxia or edema. A properly fitting lens should allow for some movement and tear exchange to maintain corneal health, so a steep and tight fit is contrary to these principles. It is crucial for the comfort and health of the wearer that lenses maintain a proper fit, avoiding excessive tightness that can result in the lens 'locking' onto the surface of the eye.