The Advantages of Contact Lenses
Leonardo Da Vinci first conceived of the idea of contact lenses for vision correction in the 1500's, but he probably never thought there would be so many types or so many options for those who choose not to wear glasses.
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History
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The first successful glass contact lens was made in 1888 by Adolf Fick. The lenses were heavy and could only be worn for short periods of time. Lighter modern-day plastic lenses can be traced to the research of American optician Kevin Tuohy who began manufacturing them in 1948.
Advances
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In 1956, a Czech chemist named Otto Wichterle created a soft, water absorbent plastic that could be used to make more comfortable lenses. Based on his prototype, Bausch & Lomb began manufacturing the first commercially available soft contact lenses in the United States in 1971.
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Better Vision
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Many people find that their vision is better with contacts than with glasses because the lens is fitted and sits directly over the eye. There often can be better peripheral vision and focus than with glasses. For a time, it was believed that people with astigmatism and other special needs were resigned to wearing glasses. Industry advances have made it possible for nearly everyone to have their vision corrected with contacts.
Advantages for Athletes
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Contact lenses allow athletes to avoid the distraction of glasses being dislodged or broken. Contact lenses will not slip or fog up, but they do pop out occasionally while playing sports.
Style
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Many people choose contacts because they do not like the look of glasses. Wearing contact lenses not only frees you from prescription glasses, it allows the use of stylish non-prescription sunglasses to complement personal style.
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