Common foreign bodies
Metal shavings · wood chips · sand or grit · dust and debris · contact lens fragments · glass particles · insect parts · paint chips.
Urgent eye care
Something in your eye?
We can help — fast.
Foreign objects lodged in the eye — from metal shavings to dust or debris — need prompt professional removal. Attempting it yourself risks serious injury. Call us for same-day care.
Same-day appointmentsSlit-lamp precision removalLocal anesthetic — comfortable care
Why prompt care matters
Hours matter
more than you’d think.
Metal particles begin to rust and oxidize within hours of contact with the eye. Delayed removal makes the procedure more complex and increases the risk of scarring, infection, and permanent vision impairment.
Safe, precise removal
An in-office procedure under local anesthetic. Dr. Tran uses specialized tools and slit-lamp magnification to remove particles safely and prevent complications.
Don't try it at home
Rubbing or digging can scratch the cornea and embed particles deeper. Rinsing gently is fine — anything more belongs under magnification.
Your visit
What to expect.
- 01
Examination & assessment
Slit-lamp microscopy locates the foreign body precisely and assesses penetration depth, corneal damage, and the safest removal approach.
- 02
Topical anesthetic
Numbing drops ensure the procedure is comfortable — minimal to no discomfort during removal.
- 03
Irrigation & precise removal
Gentle sterile saline flushes loose debris; embedded particles are extracted under high magnification with steady precision.
- 04
Post-procedure care
Antibiotic drops or ointment prevent infection, with clear aftercare instructions and follow-up to confirm healing.
Meet your doctor
Dr. Haley Tran, OD
Dr. Tran performs foreign body removal regularly — calm, precise, and thorough, with the follow-up care to make sure your eye heals completely.
- Doctor of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Therapeutic optometrist & glaucoma specialist
- 2024 Best of Pflugerville · #1 Optometrist
Patients in a pinch
"They got me in same day as booking and were very knowledgeable, understanding, and helpful. The exam was a breeze!"
Google review · Aura Eye Center patient
Great care — haven't been in for eye care in a few years, and they made me feel very accommodated. Would recommend!
Exams are very thorough. State of the art equipment. I get right in, no waiting. Great service.
Common questions
Answers, upfront.
Should I go to the ER instead?
For chemical burns or penetrating trauma, go to the ER immediately. For particles on the surface of the eye — metal, wood, grit — an eye clinic with a slit lamp is faster, more precise, and far less expensive.
What should I do right now?
Don't rub. You can gently rinse with clean saline or water. Then call us at (512) 885-2134 — we hold same-day slots for urgent care.
Will it hurt to remove?
No — numbing drops are applied first. Most patients feel only slight pressure and immediate relief afterward.
What if it's been a few days?
Come in anyway — embedded metal forms a rust ring that we can also remove. The sooner the better, but treatment is still very effective.
Is urgent care covered by insurance?
Foreign body removal is a medical procedure and typically covered by medical insurance. We'll verify your benefits when you call.
Something in your eye?
Don't wait.
Foreign body injuries can worsen quickly. Call us for same-day or urgent care — we're here to help.
Schedule an Appointment Call (512) 885-2134
Same-day slots · (512) 885-2134 · Mon–Thu 8:00–5:30
Related care
You might also need.
Insurance
We accept most major insurance plans.
- VSP
- EyeMed
- Aetna
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Cigna
- Medicare
- Humana
- Spectera
- Avesis
- Davis Vision
- CareCredit
- FSA / HSA
We verify your benefits before your visit — call (512) 885-2134