Phakia vs. Aphakia — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 23, 2024
Phakia refers to the presence of the natural lens in the eye, crucial for focusing vision; aphakia is the absence of this lens, often resulting in blurred vision.
Difference Between Phakia and Aphakia
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Phakia involves having the eye's natural lens intact, which plays a key role in focusing light onto the retina for clear vision. On the other hand, aphakia is the condition where this natural lens is missing, either due to surgical removal, congenital absence, or injury, leading to significant focusing problems.
In individuals with phakia, the lens helps in the adjustment of focus for seeing at various distances—a process known as accommodation. Whereas, those with aphakia lack this ability naturally, which often necessitates the use of corrective lenses or implants to restore functional vision.
The presence of the natural lens in phakic eyes contributes to the eye's overall refractive power, aiding in accurate vision. In contrast, aphakic eyes often suffer from a condition called hyperopia (farsightedness) due to the absence of the lens, requiring additional optical correction.
Phakic individuals typically do not require any specific optical interventions related to the condition of their lens unless they develop cataracts. Conversely, aphakic patients usually need to wear eyeglasses with strong bifocal or contact lenses, or undergo lens implant surgery to compensate for the lost lens.
The natural lens in phakic eyes also plays a role in protecting the retina from ultraviolet light. Aphakic individuals, lacking this natural filtration, are at a higher risk of retinal damage from UV exposure, emphasizing the need for protective eyewear.
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Comparison Chart
Lens Presence
Natural lens present
Natural lens absent
Vision Focusing
Capable of focusing light
Requires external correction
Accommodation
Lens adjusts for clear vision
No natural accommodation
Common Corrections
Rarely requires corrections
Needs glasses, contacts, or surgery
UV Protection
Natural UV protection
Increased risk of UV damage
Compare with Definitions
Phakia
Normal lens condition.
In phakia, the eye functions as expected with its natural lens.
Aphakia
Dependence on artificial lens.
Aphakia is commonly managed with the implantation of intraocular lenses.
Phakia
Protective eye function.
Phakia helps protect the retina from UV rays.
Aphakia
Risk of hyperopia.
Aphakia typically leads to farsightedness, requiring optical correction.
Phakia
Presence of the natural eye lens.
Phakia ensures the eye retains its focusing ability.
Aphakia
Need for UV protection.
Patients with aphakia need protective eyewear against UV light.
Phakia
Refractive stability.
Phakia contributes to stable vision refractivity.
Aphakia
Absence of the natural eye lens.
Aphakia often results from surgical removal of the lens.
Phakia
Accommodative capability.
Phakia allows the eye to adjust focus from near to far objects.
Aphakia
Vision correction requirement.
Aphakia necessitates using corrective lenses for clear vision.
Phakia
The presence of the natural crystalline lens of the eye.
Aphakia
Aphakia is the absence of the lens of the eye, due to surgical removal, such as in cataract surgery, a perforating wound or ulcer, or congenital anomaly. It causes a loss of accommodation, high degree of farsightedness (hyperopia), and a deep anterior chamber.
Aphakia
(ophthalmology) The absence of the lens of the eye, causing hypermetropia and a loss of accommodation.
Aphakia
An anomalous state of refraction caused by the absence of the crystalline lens, as after operations for cataract. The remedy is the use of powerful convex lenses.
Aphakia
Absence of the natural lens of the eye (usually resulting from the removal of cataracts)
Common Curiosities
What are common treatments for aphakia?
Treatments include corrective eyeglasses, contact lenses, or intraocular lens implants.
What causes aphakia?
Aphakia can be caused by surgical removal of the lens, congenital absence, or trauma.
What types of lenses are used to correct aphakia?
Thick bifocal glasses or specially designed contact lenses are used.
How is vision affected in phakia?
In phakia, vision remains clear and focused as the natural lens adjusts to different distances.
How is phakia diagnosed?
Phakia is typically identified during a standard eye examination.
What are the risks associated with aphakia?
Risks include increased farsightedness, dependence on corrective optics, and higher UV sensitivity.
Is aphakia a permanent condition?
Yes, unless treated with surgical lens implantation, aphakia is permanent.
Can phakia turn into aphakia?
Yes, phakia can turn into aphakia through lens removal during cataract surgery.
How does aphakia affect children differently than elders?
Children with aphakia require immediate correction to avoid developmental vision issues.
Can individuals with aphakia drive?
Yes, if their vision meets legal standards with correction.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
