LASIK OFFERS PRECISE VISION CORRECTION, CONVENIENCE FOR AMATEUR AND PROFESSIONAL

PILOTS

Presented by The American Refractive Surgery Council

with Dr. Steven Schallhorn

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

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

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

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• You need to avoid centers that offer older, outdated technology at the lowest possible price where the only concern is completing a sale

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

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

For More Information Please Visit: www.AmericanRefractiveSurgeryCouncil.org