Plunger method

Basic removal steps

• STEP 1: Wet eye and lens with PF saline

  This is a frequently overlooked step and it’s important for removal comfort. Dribble a few drops of preservative-free saline onto the lens in your eye and onto your plunger.

• STEP 2: Look straight ahead

  Some people prefer looking down, and this is fine too.

• STEP 3: Spread lids

  For many users, this is the most challenging step - both achieving the lid spread at all, and keeping it long enough. There are several methods for this. If you can’t efficiently master one technical, it’s time to ask your trainer for more options.

• STEP 4: Place plunger at 6 o'clock, creating suction on lens

  A high magnification mirror may be helpful in identifying where exactly to attach the plunger. It needs to be close to the lens edge for safety and comfort. Never attach a plunger to the middle of a scleral lens.

• STEP 5: Press in slightly, tip outwards, pull away

  There are two halves to this process, though they may feel like a continuous movement:

  • Breaking the seal (by pushing in then tipping outwards, essentially pulling the lens away in an arced movement)

  • Clearing the eyelids (lifting the lens away)

  This step is difficult to describe effectively in words and should be demonstrated repeatedly. Supervised practice is important.

• STEP 6: Remove plunger from lens

  The plunger may lift off the lens easily, or you slide it towards the edge of the lens and off.

Resources

• BostonSight video: “Removal with a plunger” (BostonSight Resources page)

• Scleral Lens Society video, 2:13: “Scleral lens application, removal and lens care”