[The development of the hydrophilic contact lens and the optical and therapeutical significance (author's transl)].

The development of soft lenses is recent compared to the history of hard lenses. In cooperation with chemists an appropriate material was developed which was found more suitable than all previously used hard material for close contact with the cornea. The development of the soft lens from the modest start up to the most advanced soft lens is shown in tables demonstrating the therapeutic results in young children with unilateral aphakia. During the development the scepticism of many experts had to be overcome. To day the soft lens is a contact optical and thereapeutic aid of great significance.