Does the Air Force accept PRK?
PRK is accepted by almost all military branches. Military branches, including the Navy*, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Air Force, rescind the LASIK disqualifier.
Is PRK disqualifying for the military?
In general, PRK is acceptable, but LASIK is considered disqualifying for active duty in any Special Forces (air, sea or land) capacity, and for naval aviators. LASIK is not disqualifying for general duty positions.
What disqualifies you from getting PRK?
Patients with diseases like keratoconus or glaucoma will not be candidates for PRK. If you have scarring from eye injuries or botched eye surgeries you also are likely to not be a candidate. Eye issues are likely to make you unable to undergo any vision procedures.
Can you be a fighter pilot with PRK?
Effective May 21, 2007, applicants who have had PRK and LASIK eye surgery were no longer automatically disqualified from flight training. You can not enter into the training pipeline and stay a pilot with these two laser eye treatments.
Is eye laser surgery accepted in the Air Force?
Candidates who have undergone PRK (Photo Refractive Keractectomy)/ LASIK (LASER In Situ Keratomileusis) may be considered fit for commissioning in the Air Force all branches. PRK/ LASIK surgery should not have been carried out before the age of 20 years.
Why is PRK safer than LASIK?
Overall, PRK is considered to be safer and more effective in the long term because it doesn’t leave a flap in your cornea. The flap left behind by LASIK can be subject to greater damage or complications if your eye is injured.
Does the Air Force cover LASIK?
Laser eye surgery is becoming an increasingly popular treatment method for Airmen. Refractive surgeries, better known as LASIK and PRK are fully covered for Airmen meeting procedure requirements (Illustration by Air Force Airman 1st Class Collin Schmidt, 341st Missile Wing, Malmstrom Air Force Base).
Does the Air Force allow LASIK?
US Air Force USAF now allows LASIK for all classes of aviators. The change in policy became effective after studies showed there was little or no difference between LASIK-treated eyes and untreated eyes when subjected to wind blast experienced during aircraft ejection or exposure to high altitude, and to high G-forces.
Who are good candidates for PRK?
Ideal candidates for PRK are people who experience refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism) and would like to achieve great vision without the reliance on corrective lenses. They should be in good health overall and understand the risks and benefits of PRK.
Can you join the Air Force after laser eye surgery?
Is LASIK allowed for Air Force pilots?
Can air force pilots have LASIK? The air force website states that corrective surgery can disqualify applicants for certain roles; however, air force pilot LASIK has been permissible since 2007.