What is the purpose of contact lenses?

The primary purpose of contact lenses is to correct refractive errors by placing the lens directly on the eye's surface. Refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism, occur when the eye does not bend light correctly, leading to unclear vision. Contact lenses act as a replacement for the eye's natural lens, providing the refractive power necessary to focus light accurately on the retina. This correction enhances visual clarity and can improve the overall quality of life for those wearing them.

While reducing intraocular pressure is crucial for managing conditions like glaucoma, it is not a function of contact lenses. Similarly, dilating the pupils for examination is achieved through pharmacological agents, not lenses. Lastly, while certain types of contact lenses may provide some level of UV blockage, their primary function is vision correction, rather than acting as a protective measure against UV exposure.