What is the most common technique for a patient to insert a rigid lens?

The most common technique for inserting a rigid contact lens involves placing the lens directly on the cornea. This method is often preferred because it provides a straightforward approach where the lens is gently positioned on the eye.

In practice, the patient usually holds the lens using the index finger of one hand, while using the other hand to hold the eyelids open, ensuring that the lens can be placed directly onto the corneal surface. This technique allows for better alignment and reduces the risk of dislodging the lens during the insertion process.

Many practitioners teach this method due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Alternative methods, while feasible, tend to be less common or may require additional steps that can complicate the process. For example, everted lids and scleral placement, while effective for certain types of lenses, are not the standard for straightforward rigid lens insertion. A suction cup, while useful in some contexts, is not typically the most practical or safe approach for patients each time they need to insert their lenses.