I had my medical recently, unfortunately I was unsuccessful due to my vision and current prescription which is over the 7.00 limit. I was applying for a V4 trade anyways as I know I have poor vision. I know I can get corrective surgery, but I am worried about complications or loss of night vision. Any suggestions or recommendations from anyone in the same boat or who had to get lasik? Is the CAF pretty strict about post op standards for vision?
I'm in a similar spot (V4 aiming for a V3-2 trade in need of LASIK), I actually inquired about this to a bunch of different CAF recruiting teams (unit, medical) and was basically told that they do accept people that have had laser surgery, with some limitations. It must be Lasik, LASEK or PRK surgery. Gonna be copy-pasting bits of the email I was sent:
1. Photo Refractive Keratectomy (PRK) and Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis (LASEK) are the two laser procedures currently recommended by the CF. Laser-Assisted in-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) even though not encouraged, is acceptable.
2. Due to the lack of predictability or lack of structural maintenance of the eye, RK (Radial Keratotomy) INTACS (Stromal Rings), Phakic Implants, Phakic IOL, and Orthokeratology are not permitted. These procedures are considered incompatible with the safe performance of military duties.
3. Candidates who have received laser eye surgery must report so during the enrolment medical process. A final report from the Ophthalmic Surgeon or consultant optometrist must be made available as evidence of the candidate's fitness and that no further follow-up is required. Restrictions for the procedures detailed above also apply to candidates for enrolment. Candidates treated for Ortho-K will be disqualified
4. There is a minimum three-month wait after getting refractive surgery before you can enroll. The time is dependent on how long before you no longer require follow-ups after the surgery. As soon as you do not require follow-ups (or three months after surgery, whichever is longer), they will give you a letter for a specialist to fill out. Outside of that, to be eligible you must meet the minimum medical category for your trade. As well, you must not be on any TCAT or PCAT regarding your eye surgery.
None of this information is to encourage or discourage you from getting refractive surgery. That is between you and your Eye Care Professionals.
It's up to you to consider the risks and gains.
Hope this helps, and if you really want this, I truly hope things will go well for you.
