CIBA VISION was established in 1980 as part of Ciba-Geigy’s USA Pharmaceutical Division. In 1996, Ciba-Geigy merged with Sandoz to form Novartis and CV Became the eye care unit of Novartis.  In 1980, CV entered the soft contact lens market. Some of Ciba Vision’s well-known brands include contact lenses such as Focus Dailies, Air Optix, Freshlook, Night & Day and lens care products such as  Solo Care Aqua, and AO Sept. In 2011 Novartis obtains full ownership of Alcon. A merger resulting in united strength for Alcon and CV into one eye care business. The merger made Alcon the second largest division of Novartis.