Lagophthalmos
The VA rates Lagophthalmos under Diagnostic Code 6022 across 2 severity levels, from 10% to 20%. The applicable level depends on the full criteria and the evidence for the condition. These percentages are alternatives, not amounts to add together.
Rating schedule — DC 6022 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 20%
- Rating tiers
- 2
- CFR section
- § 4.79
- Body system
- Organs of Special Sense
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
10%, 20%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Lagophthalmos?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Unilateral |
| 20% | Bilateral |
“Bilateral”
What other organs of special sense conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Lagophthalmos in 38 CFR Part 4. The rating schedule is ordered anatomically, so neighbouring codes usually cover the same joint, organ, or system, and a claim often involves more than one of them.
- 6016Nystagmus, centralRated up to 10%
- 6017Trachomatous conjunctivitisRated up to 30%
- 6018Chronic conjunctivitis (nontrachomatous)Rated up to 10%
- 6020EctropionRated up to 20%
- 6021EntropionRated up to 20%
- 6023Loss of eyebrows, complete, unilateral or bilateralRated up to 10%
- 6024Loss of eyelashes, complete, unilateral or bilateralRated up to 10%
- 6025Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)Rated up to 20%
- 6027AphakiaRated up to 30%
- 6029Aphakia or dislocation of crystalline lensRated up to 30%
Common Questions About Lagophthalmos VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Lagophthalmos?
The VA rates Lagophthalmos under Diagnostic Code 6022 at 10%, 20%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Unilateral. The maximum 20% rating requires: Bilateral.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Lagophthalmos?
The VA rates Lagophthalmos under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6022, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.79. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 10% and a 20% rating for Lagophthalmos?
A 10% rating requires: Unilateral. A 20% rating requires: Bilateral. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Lagophthalmos qualify for TDIU?
Lagophthalmos maxes at 20%, well below the single-disability TDIU threshold. However, combined with other service-connected disabilities, TDIU may be achievable under 38 CFR § 4.16. Focus on establishing secondary conditions to increase the combined rating.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Lagophthalmos?
The key evidence for Lagophthalmos is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. Treatment records showing worsening symptoms, functional limitations documented by your provider, and buddy statements describing observable impact on daily life all strengthen the claim. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.
What happens at the C&P exam for Lagophthalmos?
The C&P examiner uses a Organs of Special Sense DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 6022 rating criteria. The examiner documents symptom frequency, severity, and functional impact. Bring all treatment records and describe your worst days, not your best — the VA rates on the full clinical picture across time, not a snapshot of one good day.
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