You might try posting here:

http://forums.jetcareers.com/ask-flight-surgeon/

 

While I agree perhaps consulting with and independent medical group before his ame is probably in order.....the fact is he WILL have to disclose this condition to the FAA no matter what.

 

Very true. However the manner in which he does so can have a large effect on the timeline to process his special certification.

If he can go into an AME's office with thorough documentation of the event, as well as background history and other supplemental information that the FAA will inevitably ask for, the amount of turn around for a medical issuance can go from years to months.

Remember, each time that the folks in OKC want something, it can take up to 6 months for the new supplemental materials to be processed and acted on. If you can send the entire package (or as much of one as you can come up with) based on the info gathered through consultation with a company like Virtual Flight Surgeons, you'll be better off.

That's not to say that the FAA is going to definitely issue a medical for any certain condition. There are obviously disqualifying conditions that you just can't get around... An outside consultant can help provide an accurate picture of what to expect, if a medical is attainable, as well as steps on how to proceed.

 

bdk:

Just from a medical standpoint ask your doctor about the possibility of a "patent foramen". It's a condition some people have at birth which results in a slight opening between the top middle chambers of your heart. Ask the doctor about a test called a cardiac echo if they haven't done one already and make sure they know your concerned about this condition.

Just something you might want to check out. If you do have this there is a procedure to fix it.

 

I had a TEE done (no fun) and my heart is just fine.