Many pilots can have laser eye surgery, but strict visual standards and regulatory rules mean planning must be particularly careful.
Key considerations for pilots
Aviation authorities specify acceptable procedures, healing times, and visual outcomes.
- Checking the relevant regulator’s guidelines (for example CAA or EASA) before surgery
- Ensuring stable refraction and clear documentation of pre‑ and post‑operative vision
- Choosing techniques with a strong safety record and predictable night vision
- Allowing adequate recovery time before medical recertification
- Discussing possible halos or glare and how they might affect night flying
Procedure choices and timing
Candidates often favour options that minimise structural weakening and visual side‑effects.
- Preference in some cases for surface laser or SMILE over large flaps
- Cautious treatment of high prescriptions, with safety margins for corneal thickness
- Scheduling surgery away from key training, check rides, or exams
- Willingness to use glasses for fine‑tuning if required by licensing bodies
- Close communication between surgeon, occupational medicine, and flight doctor
