While the concept of a lens fitting directly on the eye to modify vision dates back to the time of Leonardo da Vinci, it has only been in the last 90 years, with the advent of synthetic polymers, that contact lenses have been practical for widespread use. These initial plastic lenses, made of polymethyl methacrylate, were hard, expensive, and uncomfortable. More recently, soft hydrogel materials have been developed which have both improved patient comfort and manufacturability. Material science research continues to provide breakthroughs in soft hydrogels, such as the introduction of hydrophobic silicones that increase oxygen permeability and provide greater oxygen flux to the cornea. Today a careful balance of physical and chemical properties, including surface wettability, modulus, water content, and others can result in a lens that provides good visual performance and comfort for patients. With a wide array of refractive ocular disorders to treat, including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia, the global contact lens market is valued at approximately 11 billion USD and continues to grow.<br/><br/>In this presentation, we will review some of the current state of the art technology as well as potential paths contact lenses may take in the future. Although the technology has already made tremendous strides, future opportunities for greater comfort, improved manufacturability, medical diagnostics, and enhanced vision still exist. As more is learned about the physiology of the eye and the neuroscience of how visual stimuli are processed in the brain, technology will continue to advance and provide improved products for the health and safety of contact lens wearing patients.

Contact lenses: More than meets the eye

2019 Spring National Meeting

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