It happens. You fall asleep on the couch. You forget after a long day. Or you wake up and realize… your contact lenses are still in.
At Monarch Bay Optometry in Dana Point, California, we get this question all the time — so here’s what you need to know.
First: Don’t Panic
In many cases, leaving a contact lens in overnight causes mild dryness or irritation. But sometimes it can lead to redness, light sensitivity, discharge, or even infection, especially if the lenses were not designed for overnight wear.
What matters most is:
- What type of lens you’re wearing
- How your eye feels
- How quickly you address it
Are Some Contacts Safe to Sleep In?
Yes — but only certain types.
🟢 Extended Wear Lenses
Some silicone hydrogel lenses are FDA-approved for overnight or continuous wear (for a limited number of nights). These allow more oxygen to reach the eye, reducing risk — but not eliminating it.
Even with approved extended wear lenses, sleeping in them still increases your risk of infection compared to daily removal.
🔵 Daily Wear Lenses
Most contact lenses (including daily disposables and many monthly lenses) are not meant to be slept in. When you sleep in these, oxygen to the cornea drops significantly, and the risk of complications increases.
If you’re not sure what type you wear, that’s something we can easily review together.
What Should I Do If I Wake Up With My Contacts In?
Step 1: Don’t Immediately Yank It Out
Your lens may feel “stuck” because your eye is dry. Pulling at it can cause a corneal abrasion.
Step 2: Rehydrate First
- Wash your hands.
- Use preservative-free artificial tears.
- Blink gently.
- Wait a few minutes before trying to remove it.
Step 3: Remove the Lens Gently
Once the lens moves freely, remove it carefully.
Step 4: Give Your Eyes a Break
Leave your contacts out for the rest of the day and switch to glasses.
What If I Can’t Get It Out?
If the lens won’t move:
- Add more lubricating drops.
- Close your eyes for a few minutes.
- Try again gently.
Still stuck? Stop trying.
Forcing it can scratch your cornea. If it won’t come out — or if you’re unsure whether it’s still in — call our office. We can safely locate and remove it.
When Is It an Emergency?
Call us immediately (949-487-3937) if you notice:
- Increasing redness
- Pain (not just mild irritation)
- Light sensitivity
- Blurry vision
- Discharge
Sleeping in lenses is one of the biggest risk factors for corneal infections. Early treatment makes a huge difference.
Should I Change My Contact Lens Type?
If this has happened more than once, it may be worth discussing:
- A different lens material
- A better-fitting lens
- Daily disposables
- Or an extended-wear option (if appropriate)
Sometimes a lens that feels “fine” during the day isn’t the healthiest choice long term. Comfort does not always equal safety.
We’re Here to Help
If you left your contact lens in overnight and your eye doesn’t feel quite right — don’t wait it out.
At Monarch Bay Optometry in Dana Point, we’re happy to:
- Check that the lens is fully removed
- Evaluate your cornea
- Treat irritation or infection early
- Reassess your contact lens fit if needed
Your eyes heal quickly — but only if we address problems early.
📞 Call us if you’re unsure. Even if it feels like a small thing.
Because when it comes to your eyes, it’s always better to be safe.
