Sir Harold Ridley

Sir Harold Ridley was a British ophthalmologist best known for inventing the intraocular lens (IOL), a revolutionary device used to restore vision in cataract patients. His work began in the mid-20th century, inspired by observing World War II pilots with corneal injuries. In 1949, he implanted the first IOL, which replaced the eye's natural lens after cataract removal. This innovation greatly improved recovery and quality of life for millions, making cataract surgery one of the most common and successful procedures today. Ridley's contributions have had a lasting impact on eye care and surgery worldwide.