What is the proper technique for removing scleral lenses?

The use of a plunger is the proper technique for removing scleral lenses, and understanding why this method is appropriate is key to ensuring safe and effective lens handling.

Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas-permeable contact lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera. Due to their size and the nature of their fit, they create a sealed space between the lens and the eye, which can make removal challenging. A plunger is specifically designed for this purpose, as it allows the user to gently break the seal created by the lens by applying suction directly to the lens surface. This method minimizes the risk of accidentally damaging the cornea or the lens itself during removal.

Using fingers, while it might seem intuitive, can potentially lead to complications such as injury to the eye or dislodging the lens improperly. Directly pulling them off could cause discomfort, corneal abrasions, or other damage due to the force required to dislodge the lens from the eye. Utilizing saline solution, on the other hand, might wetten the lens but does not assist in the mechanical aspect of removal.

In summary, the plunger technique ensures a careful, effective approach to removing scleral lenses, protecting both the eye and the integrity