Why does the lens inside my eye rotate?

You put it on properly, blink a few times... and suddenly, you realize something isn't right.

Has the contact lens shifted? Has it been rotated? Is this normal?

If your contact lenses frequently roll over, there may be several reasons for this, although it's not dangerous. Here's why this happens and how you can prevent it.

Is it common for a contact lens to rotate or move?

Yes... but only to a certain extent.

Although contact lenses are designed to remain stable on the surface of the eye, it's natural for them to move slightly when you blink or change direction of vision.

The problem occurs when that movement is too much, makes you uncomfortable, or impacts your vision.

Most common reasons why a contact lens moves inside the eye

1. Contact lens incorrectly inserted when putting it on.
   Sometimes we put it on hastily and it doesn't fit properly, causing it to shift when we blink.
2. Excessively thin or soft material.
   If your eye is dry, some contact lenses may be very flexible and can "crease" or move easily.
3. Wrong curvature.
   Every eye is shaped differently. If the lens base doesn't fit properly, it's more likely to shift.
4. Design without stabilization.
   Toric contact lenses (for correcting astigmatism), among others, have a specific design that prevents them from rotating. If they're not properly designed or fitted, they can rotate and cause blurred vision.
5. Excessive tearing or dry eyes.
   In both cases, the contact lens may "float" or temporarily lose adhesion.

What can I do to prevent them from moving?

• Put them on slowly and make sure they are centered properly.
• Blink repeatedly after putting them on to help them fit better.
• If you generally have dry eyes, moisturize them properly (with preservative-free artificial tears).
• Check with a professional to see if the lenses you are using are appropriate for your eye type.
• If they are for daily use, avoid sleeping in them or using them for long, uninterrupted hours.

Consult a professional

If you notice that they rotate every time you use them, you have blurry vision, or you frequently experience discomfort, it is best to visit your optician-optometrist or ophthalmologist to check:

• If it is the right type of lens
• If there is a change in your eye that requires an adjustment
• If you require a lens with stabilization (for example, toric lenses).

In summary

It is normal for a contact lens to shift slightly, but it should not rotate or cause blurred vision.

Fit, type of material, and dry eyes are often the most common reasons.

There are ways to prevent it, and if it persists, it's a good idea to check the type of contact lenses you're using.