Vision Correction for Military Personnel

LASIK for military personnel has increased in popularity. If you’re in the military or have thought of joining the military, poor vision is a hindrance. Not only can it detract from your ability in training or in the line of duty, but it also may disqualify you from entry into certain positions and programs.

Thankfully, eye surgery is a viable option that’s available to every service member, and the surgery may even be covered by the military. If you suffer from poor vision, here’s a guide to help you regain your sight and be all that you can be.

LASIK-for-military

Does Vision Correction Disqualify You From Military Service?

In the earlier years of the military before the advent of eye surgery, cadets and privates that were qualified for senior positions may have been disqualified because of vision problems.

Since 1995, the U.S. Military has used its own team of ophthalmologists and eye surgeons to correct vision to military personnel. With a high success rate, current service members have attained 20/20 vision, allowing them to obtain jobs once thought impossible.

If you’re military personnel with poor vision, LASIK or PRK surgery has been proven to restore sight and give you the upper hand to high-level jobs in the military.

Dr. Alexandra Chebil is an Orange County Ophthalmologist that has performed over 70,000 surgeries in her private Newport Beach laser vision correction practice. She has treated many patients that are military personnel that can finally enjoy 20/20 vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.

LASIK for Military Personnel

LASIK is the most popular and most modern type of eye surgery. The surgeon peels back the outer layer of the eye. Using lasers, the surgeon corrects the shape of the cornea so it correctly shines light through the eye. He or she returns the flap of the eye back to the original position, allowing it to heal immediately.

One of the major benefits of LASIK for military personnel is that there’s no excessive downtime. Typically, military personnel can return to duty within one to three days of the surgery. There’s no need for stitches and bandages.

In some instances, recipients of LASIK may see halos or stars, but this usually dissipates within a few months. Up to 9 out of 10 patients of LASIK achieve 20/20 vision, allowing them to apply for jobs such as reconnaissance, pilot, or sniper.

PRK for Military Personnel

PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy, is the precursor surgery to LASIK. However, it’s every bit as effective. Unlike LASIK, PRK surgery removes the outer flap of the cornea and allows it to heal on its own.

The major benefits of PRK over LASIK is that it’s better for those with a thin cornea or chronic dry eyes that would ordinarily be at risk during a LASIK surgery. In addition, PRK has a lesser risk of infection or complication, which is ideal for military personnel in the line of service.

With the amazing eye surgery technology available, it’s no surprise that many of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard members are turning to PRK and LASIK surgery for all of their vision needs. With the right doctor and plan, you can find your way into your next rank in the armed forces.

Contact us to schedule a private one on one consultation with Dr. Alexandra Chebil in Newport Beach CA and find out if Lasik is right for you.