Which gas permeable lens material was approved by the FDA in 1979?

The FDA approved silicone acrylate as a gas permeable lens material in 1979. This material was significant because it allowed for increased oxygen permeability compared to traditional materials, significantly improving corneal health and comfort for contact lens wearers. The incorporation of silicone into the acrylate polymer matrix enhanced oxygen transmission rates, which are crucial for maintaining corneal clarity and preventing hypoxia-related complications.

Silicone acrylate lenses became the foundation for many modern gas permeable lenses, as they provided a better balance between rigidity for optical performance and flexibility for comfort. The advancement represented a pivotal shift in contact lens technology, paving the way for further innovations in lens materials and designs.