PRK surgery and the army: What you need to know

For many aspiring or current military personnel, excellent vision is a critical requirement. If you wear glasses or contact lenses and are considering a future in the Army, you may have looked into laser vision correction. One of the most common procedures approved by the military is PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy).

In this post, we'll explain why PRK is often preferred by the military, what the Army's vision standards involve, and how the recovery process fits into service life. If you’re considering surgery, visit our PRK Surgery Brisbane page.

Why military personnel choose PRK over LASIK

PRK is a laser eye procedure that reshapes the cornea to improve vision. Unlike LASIK, which creates a flap in the cornea, PRK removes the outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium) before applying the laser.

This makes PRK especially suitable for military environments where physical activity, pressure changes, and trauma are more likely. PRK offers¹https://www.allaboutvision.com/visionsurgery/prk/:

• No flap to dislodge during intense physical activity
• Stable vision correction suitable for aviation, diving, and field work
• A long history of military approval, including among pilots, infantry, and special forces.

Is PRK better for the military?

In many cases, yes. Both LASIK and PRK offer excellent vision correction, but the Army often prefers PRK because of its flap-free technique and reduced risk of complications in combat or high-impact situations.

PRK may also be chosen for candidates who:

• Have thinner corneas
• Participate in close-contact or high-risk roles
• Need to meet specific fitness or deployment timelines

Army PRK requirements

To be eligible for enlistment or service following PRK, you must meet these typical requirements:

• Surgery performed by a licensed ophthalmologist
• Complete healing before enlistment or deployment
• Stable, uncorrected vision meeting Army minimum standards.

Recovery documentation may be required, and some roles (e.g., aviation or special forces) may have stricter criteria.

Can you join the army with PRK?

Yes. You can join the Army after PRK surgery, provided your vision meets the required standards and your recovery is complete.

It’s essential to:

• Disclose any history of vision correction during medical assessments
• Provide evidence of stable vision and a full recovery.

Service branches may have different timelines for medical clearance after PRK, usually between 3 to 6 months.

What military personnel need to know about recovery after PRK

Recovery from PRK takes longer than LASIK but is manageable with support. Here's what to expect:

• First 3-5 days: Vision may be blurry or hazy; you may feel discomfort, dryness, or light sensitivity
• Week 1: Bandage contact lens is removed; comfort begins to improve
• Weeks 2-4: Vision stabilises and daily activities resume
• 3+ months: Vision continues to sharpen; final results are evaluated.

For those in the military, it’s important to plan surgery well ahead of deployment or assessments.

Data on PRK outcomes in the military

Studies show high satisfaction rates among service members who undergo PRK. Research conducted in military settings indicates:

• High levels of visual improvement
• Low complication rates
• Long-term stability in diverse field conditions

Final thoughts

PRK is a proven option for vision correction in military settings. Its flap-free technique and reliable results make it a strong choice for Army personnel, especially those in demanding or physically active roles.

If you’re considering PRK and want to explore your options, we can help.

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