Harold Ridley and the invention of the intraocular lens.

On November 29, 1949, Harold Ridley implanted the first intraocular lens (IOL). This marked the beginning of a major change in the practice of ophthalmology and, for Ridley, the beginning of an era of inspiration, reward and challenge, unfortunately marred by the disdain and discourteous actions of many colleagues within the academic establishment in Europe and the United States. By the late 1970s IOLs and implantation procedures had undergone many improvements, and Ridley's invention had become an accepted option for the optical correction of aphakia. Since that time Ridley has been accorded the recognition due him for his unique contribution to ophthalmology through the conferring of numerous awards and honors. This colorful biographical account is based on published history, statements from Ridley's colleagues, and recent interviews with Ridley himself.