There’s much more to contact lenses than simply correcting your vision

The possibility of using contact lenses to deliver therapeutic drugs direct to the eye will form an integral part of a keynote lecture looking at future alternative uses for lenses.

Professor Lyndon Jones from the University of Waterloo is just one of the big names set to take to the stage at the BCLA’s forthcoming Clinical Conference and Exhibition as part of our 40th anniversary celebrations.

He will examine current methods of treating eye disease, such as eye drops and ointments, and reveal why embedding drugs into contact lenses for gradual release onto the ocular surface is a far more effective way of doing this.

The conference will see the BCLA mark its 40th anniversary by looking to the future of contact lenses as well as celebrating the industry’s proud past.

Leading eye care professionals will look at non-conventional, futuristic uses of contact lenses. 

Philip Morgan, who will lead a session looking at future uses for contact lenses, said: “Currently, contact lenses are almost exclusively used to correct vision and to optimise people's sight. The session will explore how the use of contact lenses might expand in the future.

“We will hear from David Bailey, the owner of Swiss company Sensimed, who will outline the challenges which his company overcame to launch their glaucoma-monitoring contact lens 'Triggerfish'.

“Technologies which are not currently available in contact lens form but may be in the future will form a central part of the session. 

“Stephen Hicks from the University of Oxford will outline novel technology to assist patients with low vision and Professor James Wolffsohn from Aston University will focus on pioneering head-up display technologies which may be incorporated into contact lenses in the future.”

Delegates will also be hearing from representatives of a number of contact lens companies to learn about their pipeline of innovative products set to come to market in the months and years ahead.

The conference, due to be held at the ACC in Liverpool on June 9th-11th, is the biggest of its kind within the contact lens industry and offers delegates the chance to keep up to date with the latest research, trends and best practice.

Hundreds of eye care professionals are expected to attend the glittering event, which will include world-renowned guest speakers, hands-on workshops and a spectacular 40th Anniversary dinner.

BCLA president Brian Tompkins said: “Reaching 40 gives us the chance to celebrate the huge strides the industry has made, particularly in regards to embracing the new technology we have at our disposal, and the future looks incredibly exciting for us all.

“We want to ensure everyone has access to the very latest research and technology to allow patients to receive the most up-to-date care available to them.”

Have you reserved your place yet? Book your place today, taking advantage of the special ‘Early Bird’ discount.