LASIK Gets The Official Seal Of Approval From Air Force Officials

For many years, members of the Air Force could not fly if they suffered certain visual problems, even following LASIK or other refractive eye surgery. That has all changed. According to a report released in May of 2007, members of the U.S. military Air Force can now apply for aviation and aviation-related positions even if they have had LASIK corrective surgery.

What took the government so long to give LASIK the OK? Flying is one of the more dangerous military operations, requiring good vision. It was vital for surgeons within the U.S. Air Force to evaluate the safety, efficacy and long-term results of refractive surgery before approving the procedure for Air Force personnel. Also, there was concern that wind blasts or high altitude could have a negative effect on LASIK-treated eyes, but studies have now shown that this is not the case.

Military Policies on LASIK
Aside from military sailors, before now the only individuals approved for combat with laser corrected vision were a few active duty marines and soldiers. Now Air Force officers are too. This is good news for anyone aspiring to pilot in the military.

Up until recently, policies about LASIK surgery and eyesight in the military have been stringent at best. Part of the reason for this was the possibility of vision problems or complications arising from the creation of a corneal flap, a common procedure performed during traditional refractive surgery. The military's hesitance was justified, as it is critical that key air force and other military officials have the ability to see well in the day and at night. If bright lights at night create a blurry or halo effect, an individual flying a plane could face serious consequences.

The recommended procedures are WFG-PRK and WFG-LASIK using the femtosecond laser. Compared to other refractive surgeries, eyes treated with these methods are more trauma-resistant, which is important given the military lifestyle and stresses of flight.

How To Qualify For Surgery
Military policies concerning LASIK and other refractive surgeries change frequently, so individuals interested in refractive surgery should consult with a military administrator prior to receiving surgery. In the past, individuals who aspired to become active members of the military placed on active duty were not able to do so if they had laser surgery before becoming an active duty member. This actually served as a disqualifier for many.

However, there are instances where individuals may obtain a waiver allowing them to participate as an active duty member. For people already enlisted in the military, like members of the Air Force, many times the military compensates members for laser eye surgery. That's right... if you currently serve in the air force, you may get refractive surgery for free. So consult with your advisor to find out what your status is today. If you can take advantage of corrective surgery, and all it has to offer, then do so.

You will have to follow certain rules and regulations to apply for free eye surgery. For more information, you should consult with an Air Force or other military medical facility. A commander should have the information you need including details on the military's waiver policies. Also, be sure to visit the Air Force Refractive Surgery Program website.

For more information, visit:
U.S. Department of Defense

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This Article contributed by Snappy Writing

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