Many military organisations accept laser eye surgery, but rules differ between branches and roles, so checking exact requirements is essential.
Occupational and regulatory factors
Fitness standards may specify allowable procedures, recovery times, and refractive ranges.
- Confirming service‑specific guidelines before proceeding
- Preference in some settings for surface or flap‑free techniques
- Ensuring documentation of pre‑ and post‑operative status for medical records
- Allowing time away from deployment or training for safe recovery
- Awareness that some special forces roles have stricter criteria
Operational demands on vision
Military tasks often involve low‑light work, harsh environments, and impact risk.
- Priority on robust corneal structure and reliable night vision
- Careful management of dryness in dusty or windy settings
- Use of ballistic eye protection even after successful surgery
- Open discussion about the small chance of long‑term halos or glare
- Shared decision‑making with occupational medicine where needed
