Do contact lenses fall out? Causes, prevention tips, and what to do

CH-4500 VD - Web - Blog - Can contact lenses fall out_banner

Ever blinked and lost a lens? If you wear contact lenses, you might know that mini heart-skip moment when your vision goes fuzzy and you realise your lens has made a run for it. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it can be annoying and a little worrying. The good news is that with the right fit, a few simple eye care habits, and knowing where to buy contact lenses online when you need replacements, you can keep your lenses exactly where they should be.

Can contact lenses fall out?

Properly fitted contact lenses sit comfortably on the cornea and rarely budge. But when your prescription isn’t accurate, lenses can fit too loosely, increasing the risk of dislodgement. If you’ve ever had a contact lens fall out unexpectedly, a poor fit is often to blame.

Situations where lenses could come loose

Even well-fitted lenses can shift in certain situations, such as: 

  • Rubbing your eyes 

  • Playing high-impact sports 

  • Being exposed to strong wind or dry weather 


In these moments, lenses might move to the corner of your eye or fall out completely. 

Tips to stop your lenses from falling out 

A few simple steps can reduce the risk: 

  • Start with a proper fit: Always see an optometrist or eye care professional for an accurate prescription. 

  • Keep your eyes hydrated: Use rewetting drops or artificial tears, especially in air-conditioned or heated spaces. 

  • Pick the right lens type: Daily contact lenses  or soft contact lenses offer great comfort. Rigid gas permeable lenses provide crisp vision but must be properly fitted to avoid slipping. 

A close-up illustration of how a lens fits over the cornea vs when it’s loose

What to do if a lens does fall out

Step one

First, wash your hands thoroughly. 





Step two

If you find the lens and it’s undamaged, rinse it with contact lens solution (never use tap water to clean contact lenses) before reinserting.

Step three

If it’s torn or missing, use a new contact lens from your supply.




❗ Never reuse a lens that’s been on an unclean surface, as this can lead to eye infections.

If the lens feels stuck, try closing your eyelid and gently massaging in circles or apply rewetting drops to help shift it. Avoid poking around the inside of your eyelid or touching the surface of your eye, and speak to an optician or ophthalmologist if the problem continues.

Lock in your lenses with the right care

If you’re active or on the go, speak to your optician about lenses that stay put. Soft contact lenses extended wear or secure-fitting rigid gas permeable lenses can keep your vision clear and worry-free. If your lenses regularly fall out or feel uncomfortable, a check-up with your eye doctor or optometrist can help pinpoint the issue and improve your contact lens care routine.

Quick recap: how to keep your lenses secure
  • Use rewetting drops to combat dry eyes

  • Avoid rubbing your eyes while you wear lenses

  • Choose lenses that suit your lifestyle

Older woman receives eye test

Related links

WE ACCEPT