How To Insert & Remove Ortho-K Lenses

Handling Ortho-K lenses doesn’t need to feel intimidating. With the right technique and a little practice, inserting and removing your lenses can quickly become part of your normal routine.

If you or your child are starting Ortho-K, this guide will walk you through safe and effective insertion and removal techniques.

How to Insert Ortho-K Lenses

The golden rule of safe lens wear is hygiene first.

• Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial handwash.
• Dry them with a lint-free towel or paper towel (avoid tissues as they shed fibres).
• Work in a clean, well-lit area. If you’re near a sink, cover the drain to avoid accidents.

If your lenses have been soaking in disinfecting solution overnight, ensure the cycle is complete (usually 6–8 hours). Rinse each lens with sterile saline solution before inserting.

Steps to insert your Ortho-K lenses:

1. Place the lens on the tip of your dry index finger, with the concave side facing up.
2. Inspect the lens for any cracks, chips, or lint. Do not use damaged lenses.
3. Add a drop of rewetting solution into the lens for comfort.
4. With your other hand, hold your upper eyelid open to prevent blinking.
5. Pull down your lower eyelid with the free fingers of your inserting hand.
6. Gently place the lens directly on your eye.
7. Release your eyelids slowly and blink to settle the lens.

If the lens feels uncomfortable, it may have a dust particle underneath. In this case, remove the lens, rinse with saline, and reinsert. A gentle blink or light eyelid massage can help the lens centre correctly.

With practice, this becomes as routine as brushing your teeth – and the reward is waking up with clear vision every day.

How to Remove Ortho-K Lenses

Removing lenses safely helps protect both your eyes and the lenses themselves.

• Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
• Work in a clean, well-lit area with a mirror.
• If your eyes feel dry, use a drop of rewetting solution before removal.
• There are three common methods to remove Ortho-K lenses:

Option 1 – Suction tool (plunger) method

1. Ensure both your hands and the suction tool are clean.
2. Moisten the suction cup tip with sterile saline.
3. Gently press the tool onto the lower half of the lens.
4. Once attached, slide the lens away from the eye.
5. Remove the lens from the suction tool carefully.
6. Clean and rinse the suction tool before storing it.

Option 2 – Blink method

1. Look straight ahead.
2. Pull the skin at the outer corner of your eyelids with your finger.
3. Blink firmly—the lens should pop out onto your cheek or hand.
4. Catch the lens on a clean hand or towel.

Option 3 – Two-finger method

1. Hold your upper eyelid with one hand.
2. Pull your lower eyelid down with the other.
3. Gently bring your lids together by pushing toward your nose.
4. The lens should release and pop out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I dry my hands before inserting lenses?
Always use a lint-free towel or paper towel. Avoid tissues, which can leave fibres on your fingers and lenses.

How long must lenses soak in disinfectant before they are safe to insert?
Hydrogen peroxide–based systems require 6–8 hours to neutralise. After this time, the solution is converted into water and oxygen and is safe for the eyes.

Can I rinse lenses with tap water?
No. Tap water can contain microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, which may cause serious infections. Always use sterile saline.

Can I moisten lenses with saliva?
No. Saliva contains bacteria that can cause eye infections.

Are rewetting drops the same as artificial tears?
Not exactly. Rewetting drops are designed for lens comfort, while artificial tears are used to treat dry eye disease. Your optometrist can advise which is most suitable.

Why is the suction tool sometimes called a DMV?
“DMV” is a brand name of one of the first manufacturers of these tools. Over time, it has become a generic term for lens suction removers.

Mastering the insertion and removal of Ortho-K lenses is an important step in achieving safe and effective results. With clean hands, a calm approach, and regular practice, most people quickly become confident with the process.

If you or your child are new to Ortho-K, or if you’re experiencing difficulty, our team at Optometrist Parramatta is here to support you.

Drop by or book an appointment today for more information.