A routine eye exam in California turned into an extraordinary medical case when an ophthalmologist discovered 23 contact lenses lodged in a patient's eye. The procedure, captured on video and shared widely online, has become a cautionary tale about the risks of improper contact lens use.
Dr. Katerina Kurteeva, who practices in Newport Beach, performed the removal last month. The patient, a woman in her mid-70s, had not visited an eye doctor in two years despite experiencing pain and blurred vision. Kurteeva initially suspected a torn lens or corneal damage, but a closer examination revealed a surprising buildup.
Using a speculum to hold the eyelids open, Kurteeva asked the patient to look downward. What she found was a cluster of lenses stuck together, which she carefully extracted in clumps. After counting, the total reached 23. In an interview with Insider, Kurteeva said she had never encountered such a case in nearly two decades of practice.
The patient was reportedly astonished by the number, questioning whether the count was accurate. Kurteeva, sensing the rarity of the moment, instructed her assistant to record the procedure. The video quickly gained traction online, drawing reactions from eye care professionals worldwide.
Why the Video Resonated
Kurteeva shared the footage on Instagram with a caption explaining that the patient had repeatedly forgotten to remove her lenses at night, instead adding a fresh pair each morning. The post sparked discussions among optometrists in South America, Mexico, and Europe, who used it to emphasize the importance of daily lens removal.
According to Kurteeva, the patient has not suffered permanent damage and appears to be recovering well a month later. However, she has already resumed wearing contact lenses, against her doctor's explicit advice.
This case underscores a common yet often overlooked risk: failing to follow proper contact lens hygiene can lead to serious complications, including infections and corneal damage. Eye care professionals stress that lenses should be removed nightly and replaced according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
While the incident is extreme, it serves as a reminder for millions of contact lens wearers to prioritize eye health. For those experiencing discomfort or vision changes, prompt consultation with an eye care specialist is crucial.
