Firstly, it is essential to understand the anatomy of a soft contact lens. Soft contact lenses are usually thin and flexible, with a curve on one side and a smooth, flat side on the other. The curved side is called the front surface, and the flat side is called the back surface. The front surface of the lens should always be facing outwards and rest against your cornea. The back surface should be facing inwards and should be in contact with your eye’s tears.
The most common method to determine whether your soft contact lens is inside out or not is the “Taco Test”. The Taco Test involves gently pinching the lens between your thumb and index finger, creating a slight taco shape. Next, examine the edges of the lens. If the edges flare outwards, then the contact lens is inside out. If the edges curl inwards towards each other, then the contact lens is in the correct position. This technique is perfect for individuals who don’t have long nails or are not concerned about touching their lenses directly.
Another technique for determining if your contact lens is inside out is to examine the lens’s print or markings if any. Most soft contact lenses come with a number or letters engraved on them. If these markings appear backward, then the contact lens is inside out. If the markings are legible and facing forwards, the lens is in the correct orientation. However, not all soft contact lenses have markings, so this technique may not be applicable for everyone.
A third technique for determining if your soft contact lens is inside out is the “Bowl Test”. Cup your hand and fill it with water. Hold your contact lens on the tip of your index finger, making sure it doesn’t fall off. Next, carefully place the contact lens into the water-filled cupped hand. If the contact lens floats upwards and takes the shape of a bowl, then the lens is in the correct orientation. If it flips over and takes the form of a saucer, with the edges curling upwards, then the lens is inside out.
Lastly, you can determine if your soft contact lens is inside out by examining the lens’s thickness. The lens’s front surface or the curved portion is typically thicker than the back surface or the flat side. If you look closely at the lens, you will see that the edges of the lens appear thicker than the center of the lens. If the edges are thicker than the center, the lens is in the correct position. If the center appears thicker, the contact lens is inside out.
In conclusion, there are several easy methods to determine if your soft contact lens is inside out. The Taco Test, Marking Exam, Bowl Test, and Thickness Test are all effective techniques for quickly diagnosing whether your contact lens is inside out. Properly orienting your soft contact lenses is essential for maintaining good eye health, comfort, and optimal vision. Therefore, it is paramount to ensure that you have correctly inserted them into your eyes before wearing them. Should you have any concerns or difficulties inserting and removing your contact lenses or any discomfort whatsoever, it is advisable to consult your optometrist.