LASIK offers precise vision correction that can eliminate concerns pilots have about glasses or contacts. It has support from the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and NASA. LASIK can safely correct vision precisely while enhancing safety by reducing tasks for pilots in emergencies. Choosing an experienced surgeon at a quality center is important, and there is a recovery period where night vision may prevent flying. Resources are available to help pilots consider LASIK safely.

1. LASIK OFFERS PRECISE VISION CORRECTION,
CONVENIENCE FOR AMATEUR AND PROFESSIONAL
PILOTS
Presented by
The American Refractive Surgery Council
with
Dr. Steven Schallhorn

2. Overview
• For amateur and professional pilots, good eyesight can be a
matter of life and death
• Whether it’s spotting other traffic in a busy pattern, detecting
runway hazards on final approach, or reading charts and
electronic flight instruments, the quality of your vision is a big
part of the margin of safety
• For pilots who need vision correction, LASIK – corrective laser
eye surgery – may be a worthwhile alternative to glasses or
contacts

3. Support of the Aviation Community
• LASIK has gathered significant support in the aviation
community:
– The U.S. Air Force has performed LASIK for many
years, and recently expanded its criteria to allow a wide
range of pilots and aircrew, including pilot candidates, to
undergo the procedure
– The U.S. Navy provides laser vision correction to
pilots, including aircraft carrier aviators, and SEAL
commandos
– As a further testament, NASA now allows it for members of
the astronaut corps

4. LASIK Advantages for Pilots
• LASIK offers many advantages to pilots:
– Using the latest LASIK technology, it’s possible to safely
correct vision with a high degree of precision
– LASIK can eliminate aviator concerns about glasses being
dislodged during turbulence, or contact lenses causing
irritation or problems with glare
• In an emergency there’s more than enough for a pilot to deal with
• Anything that reduces the task list helps keep you safer, and LASIK
can do that while providing excellent vision, which in itself
enhances safety

5. Choosing the Right Surgeon
• Choosing the right surgeon and laser center is essential for anyone
considering LASIK, but especially so for pilots whose careers or just
ability to fly depends on a successful LASIK outcome
• A qualified surgeon is one who has successfully performed many
procedures and can expertly determine if you are a good candidate
for the procedure
• A high quality center utilizes the latest technology, including
diagnostics and lasers, in a proper clinical setting and employs well-
trained staff
• You need to avoid centers that offer older, outdated technology at
the lowest possible price where the only concern is completing a
sale

6. LASIK Safety
• It’s also important to keep in mind that while LASIK has an
exceptional and proven safety record, as with any surgery
there can be risks associated with the procedure
• There is also a recovery period, typically a few days but can
take longer, during which night vision may not be adequate to
fly– any pilot considering LASIK should take this into account,
and it might be an important factor for anyone who flies for a
living
• This is another area where a consultation with a qualified eye
care provider – especially with one familiar with the demands
of aviation – can be helpful

7. LASIK Resources for Pilots
• There are many resources available for pilots considering
LASIK:
• The Federal Aviation Administration’s Aviation Medicine
Advisory Service (AMAS) website provides extensive guidance
for pilots considering LASIK, including a downloadable booklet
entitled “Information for Pilots Considering Laser Eye Surgery”
• The American Optometric Association offers detailed
information, and the American Refractive Surgery Council
offers a wide range of information and advice

8. For More Information Please Visit:
www.AmericanRefractiveSurgeryCouncil.org