Diagnostic Code 6029 · 38 CFR §4.79
Aphakia is the absence of the natural lens of the eye, typically after cataract surgery without lens implant or traumatic lens loss. Lens dislocation (ectopia lentis) occurs when the lens shifts out of its normal position, causing severely distorted vision. In veterans, these conditions commonly result from blast injuries, penetrating eye trauma, or surgical complications. Under the CFR, aphakia and lens dislocation are evaluated based on visual impairment, with the resulting level of visual impairment elevated one step. The VA provides a minimum 30% rating for aphakia (unilateral or bilateral).
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Minimum rating for aphakia or dislocation of the crystalline lens (unilateral or bilateral). The VA evaluates based on visual impairment and elevates the resulting level one step. If the resulting visual impairment warrants a higher rating, the higher rating applies. |
An ophthalmology examination confirming aphakia or lens dislocation is essential. Surgical records if the lens was removed or if an implant was placed, documentation of the traumatic event that caused lens loss or dislocation, visual acuity testing with best correction, and records showing any complications all strengthen your claim.
Yes. If a replacement lens is present (pseudophakia), the eye is evaluated under the General Rating Formula for cataracts (DC 6027), not under DC 6029. DC 6029 with the minimum 30% applies only when there is no replacement lens (true aphakia) or with lens dislocation.
The VA recognizes that losing the natural lens represents a permanent, irreversible change in eye function. The eye cannot accommodate (change focus) the way a natural lens can, and there is increased risk of complications. The 30% minimum reflects this permanent impairment, and the one-step elevation rule can push the rating higher.