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 ability to maintain focus (accommodation), high degree of farsightedness (hyperopia),[1] and a deep anterior chamber.

Congenital cataracts usually develop as a result of infection of the fetus or genetic reasons.

[2] Surgical removal of a lens, mainly in cataract surgery, is the most common cause of aphakia.

[1] Spontaneous traumatic absorption or congenital absence of lens matter is rare.