Can I get ICL surgery on the civilian side in the National Guard?

SGT Jordan L — Sat, 25 Mar 2023 12:46:15 -0400

I am getting ICL surgery here in a few days from a civilian clinic. I am currently an AGR recruiter in the Texas Army National Guard.

I can’t find anything in AR 40-501 that says I can’t get ICL surgery. It’s a no go for flying, but I don’t ever plan on being a pilot. The only thing I can find saying you can’t have ICL is if you’re attempting to join the military (DODI). I’m already in! :)

I reached out to the people who do my PHA and a Major told me that it shouldn’t be a problem unless I want to be a pilot. He also said diving, parachuting wouldn’t completely be a disqualification per the reg.

I just want to make sure I’m not missing anything. Last thing I’d want is to accidentally make myself non-deployable or something stupid like that during my next PHA.

Any help would be welcome.

Thank you!

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2023 2:22 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Mar 2023 14:22:06 -0400

From what I have read, the Army is paying for ICL if the patient is not a suitable candidate for PRK or LASIK.
So, it's not likely to get you kicked out, or non-deployable aside from the 4 week recovery.

https://darnall.tricare.mil/Health-Services/Vision/Warfighter-Refractive-Eye-Surgery-Program-Laser-Clinic

Warfighter Refractive Eye Surgery Program (Laser Clinic)

The official website of Army Medical Center Darnall-Hood

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2023 3:39 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Mar 2023 15:39:40 -0400

I have never heard of a member recieving negative feedback for ICL surgery especially from a reserve or National Guard component. Be sure to notify your command and medical unit and have the necessary paperwork into medical post-op asap. Granted, there could be specific factors like are you nearing a deployment or AT etc. that you may need to complete before you get the surgery if you cannot recover before your travel date. Good luck and speedy recovery.