Hi everybody,

I recently earned my CFI, CFII and MEI licenses and am looking at aviation careers for after college(I'm a senior now). I'm in good physical health, just my eye sight is poor without lenses. My eyes have stabilized and the prescription has not changed in three years. The optomotrist said I'm an excellent candidate for LASIK, but worried about being disqualified from some branches of the military. What are the acceptable eye surgeries for the different branches? Thank you for your help

edit: I understand that nay eye surgery is DQ'ing w/o a waiver but don't some not allow LASIK at all?

 

The military will generally allow PRK.

Historically, LASIK was disqualifying since the procedure weakened the cornea's attachment to the eye (PRK does not). I understand that there is a test program for LASIK, but it may only apply to currently qualified military pilots at this time.

The info you are looking for changes, so to be on the safe side I would contact pilot-recruitment specialists in each service you are interested in to get the current rules.

There are some risks and issues with any type of vision surgery, do your homework...

http://www.airlinepilotforums.com/pi...k-warning.html

http://www.airlinepilotforums.com/mi...vices-prk.html

http://www.airlinepilotforums.com/pi...er-surgey.html

http://www.airlinepilotforums.com/mi...-military.html

 

I'm interested in all of them.

 

Air Force perspective

What is your current vision and prescription? When I went through Brooks it was up to 20/70 (-1.50) without a waiver and 20/200 (-3.00) with a waiver. Other things factor into this but generally this is what I remember.

PRK is allowed, just make sure you do all the appropriate paperwork. Also, might be a good idea to get tested for color vision. A buddy of a buddy was a Nav, got PRK and went down to Brooks and passed all his vision tests but color. I'm not just talking the standard FAA medical, I never had a problem with those but the AF tests at Brooks were a b!tch!

Not sure about LASIK, have heard it's approved but as mentioned above, that could be for rated people only.

OBTW.......if you want to fly for the military, take a look in the Guard, you'll thank me later!

Goodluck, Bro

 

I won't specifically go into my own experience, I had PRK done nearly 3 years ago while on active duty. I echo what most have said, do your homework. You wouldn't be the first or last dude to spend the cash on LASIK/PRK only to find out you were never qualified based on your pre-existing condition. Check out the individual waiver guides not only for LASIK/PRK but also pre-existing diopter numbers. As for the decision for which procedure to have done. PRK by far and away has the best long term results and less long term side effects there is no disputing that fact the numbers don't lie. Yes there is a significant amount of healing time and pain with PRK that you don't need to endure with LASIK and 90 days of no flying in the Navy/Marine Corps but in the end it's worth it. I'll take a week or two of a 'sand feeling' in my eye so I can see when I'm 50 and be able to drive at night. Here's a link to the Navy's waiver guide. I know the Navy is conducting studies with LASIK right now for aviators at Balboa Naval Hospital and the guide changes as those studies are complete.

http://navmedmpte.med.navy.mil/nomi/...y%20080624.pdf

 

I'm not quite sure of my exact vision, but my prescription is -3.50.

I actually have been through MEPS before. When I was 17, I enlisted in the Marines through the DEP and had the MOS of aircraft mechanic. I decided to hold off on the military because I wanted to get my degree and also get my licenses. With that being said, I had the physical and had perfect color vision and have no astigmatisms.

 

I'm definitely interested in flying for the military. Which Guard are you talking about? Coast Guard or Air National Guard?

 

He's talking about the ANG. The USCG is refered to in military circles as the "Puddle Pirates"

 

Thank you for clearing that up.

Perhaps y'all could also clear up why I would be thanking him later?

 

*Not trying to turn this into a AD vs. Guard/Reserve thread.

Rick is correct, I am talking about the Air National Guard. I just want to make sure you at least know about it. Having been in 8 years, both enlisted and now on the officer side, I can't count how many times I have heard, "wish I would have known about the guard." This was never more true than the weeks leading up to my class assignment night. There was buzz going around about possible UAV's. We didn't get any but they are coming soon.

Anyway it just amazes me how many people get into the military who have never even heard of the guard. Do a little research and look at all your options. Take a look at the Palace Chase thread. (Palace Chase is a program for AD people to transfer to the Guard/Reserve before their commitment is up.)

I'm out for now, it's time to drink! Feel free to PM with any questions.