LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a vision correction procedure that improves visual sharpness and clarity without needing glasses. Because of the visual standards that armed forces maintain, many military personnel consider LASIK surgery.
Fortunately, many LASIK providers offer discounts for people on active duty, veterans, and their families. In this article, we’ll go over military discounts and who qualifies for discounts on LASIK.
Available LASIK Discounts for Military Service Members
Military discounts for LASIK can depend on the provider and their location. However, the discount typically ranges between 15% to 40%.
Here are some of the resources providing or listing LASIK discounts for service members:
Contact the provider if you want to know more about a specific discount. Furthermore, many LASIK providers offer additional services and incentives.
Does TRICARE Cover LASIK Surgery?
Unfortunately, TRICARE doesn’t typically cover the cost of LASIK surgery because it’s considered an elective procedure. However, TRICARE may cover LASIK if it’s considered medically necessary.
LASIK may be considered medically necessary if:
- It’s used to correct vision problems caused by an injury
- Patients can’t wear glasses or contact lenses
- It’s used to correct vision problems caused by surgery
Who Qualifies for Military Discounts on LASIK?
The people who qualify for a military discount on LASIK include:
- Active duty service members. People currently serving in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces
- Veterans. Former military personnel
- Reservists. Reserve members of the military
- Dependents. Family members of active military personnel, veterans, or reserve members
Although dependents of military personnel can take advantage of discounts, this may depend on the specific provider. Additionally, the discount might be smaller for dependents.
How to Access LASIK Discounts for Military Service Members
It’s very easy to access military discounts for LASIK. Here’s how:
- Choose a provider and contact them
- Verify eligibility (ID, veteran status, documentation, etc.)
- Schedule a consultation
- Review terms and conditions
Feel free to ask questions during the consultation to clarify specific details about the discount and any additional incentives. Some providers offer free LASIK consultation as well.
How Is LASIK Beneficial to Military Members?
LASIK eye surgery offers several advantages to military service members. These benefits include:
- Improved visual acuity
- Helps you train without visual problems
- Eliminates the need for glasses or contacts
- Improves deployment readiness
Overall, having improved eyesight ensures you’re able to adapt to various conditions without glasses.
Can LASIK Surgery Enhance Military Career Opportunities?
Certain military occupational specialties have strict vision requirements, such as:
- Pilots
- Special forces
- Air force
- Navy SEALs
You might be barred from these occupational specialties because of less-than-perfect vision. However, LASIK can vastly improve your eyesight and help you advance your military career.
LASIK Recovery and Outcomes
LASIK has a very short recovery period. Most patients see improvement within a few hours. After a few days or weeks, you’ll have full visual stabilization.
Studies have shown a high success rate with LASIK in the military. Over 95% of military personnel achieved 20/20 vision or better after surgery.
Summary
LASIK eye surgery corrects refractive errors, improves eyesight, and removes the need for glasses or contact lenses. Because of the military’s strict vision requirements, many people consider LASIK.
Many LASIK providers offer 15% to 40% discounts for military service members, veterans, and their dependents. Although TRICARE doesn’t usually cover the cost of LASIK, it may if it’s considered medically necessary.
Over 95% of military personnel achieved 20/20 vision or better after surgery. The recovery period for LASIK is very short, with most patients seeing improvement within hours and full stabilization within days or weeks.
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