A contact lens insertion and removal device includes a lens cup with a concave curvature for engaging a contact lens and a central aperture, a deformable shape retentive handle with a limited interior volume from which air can be exchanged between the interior and exterior of the handle, and an elongate hollow wand connected between the handle and the lens cup to form a passageway from the interior of the handle through the central aperture of the lens cup. A contact lens may be engaged with limited suction by the lens cup and released from the lens cup by manipulation of the handle without risk of damage to the contact lens.