PRK surgery for pilots: A trusted choice for clearer vision in the sky

For pilots, good vision isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Whether you're training for your commercial licence, already flying professionally, or just getting started in aviation, your ability to meet visual standards matters.

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is a flap-free laser eye surgery that’s trusted by military¹https://www.smh.com.au/national/laser-surgery-for-our-sas-troops-fighting-terrorism-20041226-gdkdt1.html and civilian pilots alike. In this post, we explore why PRK is often the preferred choice for aviation professionals, how it compares to LASIK, and what you should know before flying after surgery.

To learn more about the procedure, visit our PRK Surgery Brisbane page. Ready to take the next step? Take our suitability self-test.

Can pilots get PRK?

Yes. Most aviation authorities—including CASA (Australia) ²https://www.casa.gov.au/licences-and-certificates/medical-professionals/dames-clinical-practice-guidelines/laser-and-refractive-eye-surgery#Aeromedicalimplications, the FAA (USA), and military organisations³https://www.caa.co.uk/aeromedical-examiners/medical-standards/pilots/medical-conditions/visual/guidance-following-eye-surgery/—approve PRK for pilot candidates and licensed pilots, as long as your vision meets medical standards after healing.

PRK has been used successfully in thousands of pilots worldwide, including in the U.S. Air Force and Navy. Because it leaves no corneal flap, PRK is considered more stable under pressure and physical strain—two common elements in flight.

Which eye surgery is best for pilots?

Both LASIK and PRK are approved procedures, but PRK is often preferred in aviation.

The reason? LASIK involves creating a corneal flap. Although rare, there is a small risk the flap could shift or dislodge under physical stress—such as during G-force changes, barometric pressure shifts, or emergency situations⁴https://www.healthline.com/health/eye-health/prk-vs-lasik#efficacy.

Since PRK doesn’t involve a flap, it’s seen as a safer long-term option for pilots.

Why PRK surgery for pilots is a preferred choice

• Flap-free procedure: No risk of future flap-related complications⁵https://www.allaboutvision.com/en-gb/vision-surgery/prk/
• Stable vision correction: Especially important for meeting Class 1 or Class 2 medical standards
• Military tested and approved: Used widely in defence aviation programs
• Minimal long-term complications

While recovery takes longer, PRK offers greater peace of mind for pilots who need consistent visual performance in demanding conditions.

What pilots need to know about PRK procedure and recovery

PRK works by gently removing the outer layer of the cornea and reshaping the surface underneath using a laser⁶ https://www.healthline.com/health/prk. After the procedure:

• A bandage contact lens is placed on the eye
• You'll need several days off screens and bright lights
• Vision is blurry at first but improves over 1–2 weeks
• Eye drops support healing and comfort

For pilots, it's important to plan time away from flight duties. Most aviation authorities require a waiting period (often 3 months) and evidence of visual stability before recertification.

PRK surgery outcomes and risks for aspiring and professional pilots

Most pilots who undergo PRK achieve excellent uncorrected vision.

Potential benefits:

• Improved visual acuity without glasses or contacts
• Freedom from lens fogging or shifting in the cockpit
• Better night vision in well-selected cases

Possible risks:

• Temporary glare or halos (usually resolve within weeks)
• Dry eyes (managed with drops)
• Delayed return to flying (important for career planning)⁷https://www.allaboutvision.com/en-gb/vision-surgery/prk/

A thorough consultation and clear communication with your aviation medical examiner (DAME) can help you navigate this process smoothly.

For pilots, vision matters more than most. PRK offers a safe, stable, and widely approved laser vision correction option for those in the skies.

Whether you're an aspiring cadet, a commercial pilot, or flying for the military, PRK can reduce your reliance on glasses or contacts—without compromising safety.

Take the PRK suitability self-test today to learn if you're eligible.