History of Contact Lenses: A Brief History at That

While the history of contact lenses could be spoken about forever to patients by an overzealous doctor, it's important for patients to know a little bit about where the lens evolved throughout history to appreciate its value now. Contacts were discovered, so to speak, by inventor Otto Wichterle in 1961. His definition of contacts is what is commonly used today. There are two types of contacts based on his model, hard and soft, with the latter becoming one of the most popular forms in the modern world. Wichterle, who invented contacts, went on to perfect the chemical process of combining polymers in the laboratory to make lenses.

This invention made it possible for some to ditch their glasses for an easier way to correct their vision. Contacts were made, much in the same fashion as glasses, to allow for the wearer to see clearer and properly, thus, correcting a predisposed vision problem whether diagnosed or not.

In the 1960s, there was not a good alternative to glasses; therefore, many people went without them. In numerous situations they were unable to avoid accidents and dirt particles got into their eyes at work. People tended to wear other types of lenses - safety goggles or glasses - for work or school.

This left many people with periods of time when they weren't seeing properly, which can do more damage to your eyes, and is why you should always wear your glasses or contacts when prescribed if at all possible.

The history of contacts would be incomplete and still in progress had it not been for Wichterle's discovery. So, the next time you put your contact lenses in your eyes, keep in mind that Wichterle worked hard to invent them to make your life easier.