Abstract: A method is performed for temporarily protecting lenses before subsequent treatment of the lens. The process provides a polymeric ophthalmic lens having a front surface and a rear surface, then provides a coating solution comprising a water-soluble/dispersible or organic-soluble/dispersible organic polymer in a solvent, the solvent not attacking or dissolving the polymeric ophthalmic lens. A coating solution is applied to at least one of the front surface or the rear surface. The coating solution is dried on the lens to form a temporary protective coating. The lens is supported. The lens is modified. The dried coating is then dissolved/dispersed the dried coating in a second solution without attacking, dissolving or damaging the lens.