Can You Wear Contact Lenses During an MRI? Safety Tips & FAQs
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is therefore commonly used to diagnose various diseases. Because MRI machines generate strong magnetic fields, many people who wear contact lenses may wonder whether they can continue to wear them during the scan. Understanding whether contact lenses affect the safety of the MRI and the quality of the imaging is crucial for patients to receive an accurate diagnosis.
What Is an MRI and How Does It Work?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that helps doctors see detailed images of the inside of the body. It works by using powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to create pictures of organs, tissues, and other structures without the need for X-rays or radiation.
During an MRI scan, the strong magnetic field temporarily aligns the hydrogen atoms in the body. Then, radio waves are sent through the body, causing these atoms to produce signals that are detected and turned into images by a computer.
Because MRI machines use very strong magnets, metal objects or foreign materials in or on the body can cause problems. These items may interfere with the magnetic field, leading to safety risks such as movement or heating of the metal, as well as distortions in the images, making it harder for doctors to get accurate results.
Why Objects With Metal Are Prohibited in MRIs
Metal objects are strictly prohibited during MRI scans because the strong magnetic fields used in the procedure can interact dangerously with them. Even small pieces of metal, such as jewelry, piercings, or implants, can be pulled or moved by the magnet, posing a risk of injury. Additionally, metal can heat up due to the radiofrequency energy, which may cause burns. Beyond safety concerns, metal objects can also distort the magnetic field, leading to blurry or inaccurate images. To ensure both patient safety and the quality of the scan, all metal items must be removed before undergoing an MRI.
Types of Contact Lenses
Contact lenses come in different types, with the two most common being soft contacts and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. Soft contact lenses are made from flexible, water-containing plastics that conform to the shape of the eye, offering comfort and ease of use. RGP lenses, on the other hand, are firmer and more durable, made from rigid, oxygen-permeable materials that provide sharper vision for certain eye conditions.
In addition to these, there are cosmetic or colored contact lenses designed to change the appearance of the eyes. Some of these lenses may contain dyes or, in rare cases, tiny metal particles to achieve special effects.
While most contact lenses are made from non-metallic materials that pose little concern during an MRI, certain specialty lenses might have trace amounts of metal. It’s important to know what type of lenses you wear when preparing for an MRI scan.
Are Contact Lenses Safe During an MRI?
For the most part, standard contact lenses—whether soft or rigid gas permeable—are made without metal components and are considered safe during an MRI scan. Since they don’t contain metal, they generally won’t interfere with the magnetic field or pose a safety risk.
However, in rare cases, certain cosmetic or specialty lenses that contain metal particles or metallic dyes might have the potential to heat up or cause discomfort when exposed to the MRI’s strong magnetic fields. Because of this small possibility, medical professionals often recommend removing contact lenses before undergoing an MRI as a precaution.
According to the American College of Radiology, “Patients should inform their MRI technologist if they wear contact lenses, especially cosmetic types, so proper precautions can be taken.” Similarly, ophthalmologists advise that removing contacts before the scan helps ensure both patient comfort and image quality.
When in doubt, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider or the MRI technician about your specific type of contact lenses before the procedure.
Why You Might Be Asked to Remove Contacts Before MRI？
MRI technicians or radiologists may ask you to remove your contact lenses before the scan for several important reasons. First, even though most contacts are safe, lenses that contain metal particles could potentially heat up or cause irritation during the procedure. Removing them helps avoid any discomfort or risk of injury.
Second, metal components in certain lenses can interfere with the MRI’s magnetic field, leading to distorted or unclear images. Taking out your contacts ensures the highest quality scans for accurate diagnosis.
Finally, if the MRI involves imaging around the eyes or nearby areas, having your contacts removed can make the process easier and more effective. For these reasons, following the recommendation to remove lenses helps keep you safe and supports the success of your MRI exam.
Potential Risks of Wearing Contacts During an MRI
Wearing contact lenses during an MRI can carry certain risks that are important to consider. While soft lenses usually don’t contain metal and pose little threat, they can still cause discomfort during the scan. Rigid lenses, particularly those with any metallic parts, may react to the magnetic field in ways that could be harmful.
Heat and Movement
If your contact lenses have metal components, the MRI’s magnetic field might cause them to heat up or shift position on your eye. This could result in discomfort or, in rare cases, even injury. Although such incidents are uncommon, the possibility should not be overlooked.
Dryness and Discomfort
MRI scans can last from 15 minutes to over an hour, requiring you to stay perfectly still. The cool, dry environment of the MRI room can cause your eyes to become dry if you’re wearing contacts, leading to irritation. This discomfort might make it harder to keep still, which is crucial for capturing clear and accurate images.
Steps to Take Before an MRI
To help make your MRI scan safe and comfortable, it’s important to follow these simple steps:
Remove Your Contact Lenses: Before the MRI starts, take out your contact lenses to reduce any chance of discomfort or interference with the scan. Be sure to keep them in a clean, sterile case for safekeeping.
Talk to the Radiologist or MRI Technician: Always inform the MRI staff that you wear contact lenses. They can advise you on whether it’s safe to keep them in during your specific scan and give you tailored instructions based on your situation.
Choosing Safe Contact Lenses for Everyday Wear and Medical Exams
When it comes to wearing contact lenses on a daily basis, the safety and material composition of the lenses are just as important as comfort and vision correction. Choosing contact lenses made from clearly disclosed, non-metallic materials can help reduce concerns when preparing for medical procedures such as an MRI scan, where strong magnetic fields are involved.
Non-Metallic Lens Materials and Practical Convenience
Contact lenses designed without any metal components are easier to manage before and after medical examinations, as they can be removed and replaced without additional safety concerns. For example, Finallure offers a wide selection of colored and daily-use contact lenses made with non-metallic materials, making them suitable for regular wear and simple to handle when medical guidelines require switching to glasses prior to an MRI.
Planning Ahead With Backup Lenses
For users who wear contact lenses regularly, having extra pairs available can make the process more convenient—especially when you need to remove lenses temporarily for medical tests. Finallure currently provides F3 (Buy 3 Get 3 Free) and F5 (Buy 5 Get 5 Free) offers, allowing users to prepare backup lenses in advance and comfortably transition to wearing glasses on the day of an MRI examination.
FAQs
Can I wear my contacts during an MRI?
Most standard contact lenses are safe to wear during an MRI since they don’t contain metal. However, it’s generally recommended to remove them beforehand as a precaution, especially if you wear cosmetic lenses that might have metallic components.
What happens if I forget to remove my contacts?
If you forget to remove your contacts, it’s usually not an emergency—most lenses won’t cause harm. However, there is a small risk of discomfort, irritation, or image distortion if your lenses contain metal. Be sure to inform the MRI technician so they can monitor you and decide the best course of action.
Do MRI technicians always ask to remove contacts?
Not always. Technicians will typically ask if you wear contacts and may request removal depending on the type of scan or if your lenses might contain metal. It’s best to follow their instructions to ensure safety and image quality.
Are glasses allowed during an MRI?
Glasses are generally not allowed inside the MRI scanner because they contain metal parts that can interfere with the magnetic field and pose safety risks. You’ll usually need to remove them before the scan.
Can contacts cause burns during an MRI?
While it’s rare, contact lenses with metal components have the potential to heat up during an MRI, which could cause mild burns or eye irritation. This is why removing lenses before the scan is often advised, especially for cosmetic or specialty lenses.
Conclusion
While most standard contact lenses are generally safe during an MRI, removing them beforehand is a wise precaution to avoid any potential risks such as discomfort, heating, or image distortion. Following the guidance of medical professionals and MRI technicians helps ensure both your safety and the accuracy of the scan. If you are ever unsure about whether to wear your contacts during an MRI, be sure to consult your healthcare provider or the imaging team for personalized advice.