NEW - Dependent and Retiree Refractive Eye Surgery Program (DRRESP)
The 60th Medical Group is now accepting applications for the Dependent and Retiree Refractive Eye Surgery Program (DRRESP) at David Grant Medical Center, Travis AFB.
This program offers Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) to eligible dependents and military retirees as a paid cosmetic procedure, for those who meet both clinical and administrative criteria.
- See the DRRESP Application Form (linked on the right) for full instructions and eligibility.
- Submit completed applications securely via the Travis Ophthalmology Refractive Clinic MHS Genesis Patient Portal or in person at the Ophthalmology Department.
- For secure messaging instructions, click here.
Refractive Surgery Center
The Warfighter Refractive Surgery Center provides state-of-the-art refractive surgery procedures to our aviators and warfighters.
Services Provided
Our center offers the following procedures:
- Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
- Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) (Local patients only)
All procedures aim to improve uncorrected vision and support optimal readiness to serve our Nation's needs.
What is Refractive Surgery?
Refractive surgery is a procedure to correct refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism) by reshaping the cornea—the clear outermost layer of the eye that functions like a window and focuses light.
What is PRK and ICL?
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK), Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK), and Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) are outpatient surgical procedures.
- PRK: The surface layer of the cornea is gently removed. An excimer laser then reshapes the cornea, and a bandage contact lens is placed to allow the eye to heal.
- ICL: An FDA-approved vision correction procedure to treat nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. It involves an artificial lens being surgically implanted inside the eye, carefully placed between the iris and the natural lens.
Who is eligible for refractive surgery?
Eligible members include:
- Active-duty service members and their dependents
- National Guard and Reserve service members on active duty
- Retirees
Applicants should review their management group below to determine the correct application process and requirements.
Note: An ophthalmologist will ultimately determine a member’s eligibility to proceed with refractive surgery.
Refractive Surgery Management Groups
Before applying for refractive surgery, applicants must identify their applicable group. Each group has its own process and eligibility criteria. The application for each program is linked on the right:
- Warfighter Refractive Eye Surgery Program (WRESP)
For active-duty military personnel seeking operational vision enhancement.
- Aviation and Aviation-Related Special Duty (AASD)
For Air Force members in flying or aviation related special duty roles. In accordance with Department of the Air Force policy, applicants must receive “Permission to Proceed” authorization prior to any CRS treatment (DoD or civilian). An ophthalmologist will determine a member’s eligibility to proceed with refractive surgery.
- Dependent and Retiree Refractive Eye Surgery Program (DRRESP)
For active-duty dependents and military retirees. Currently offering PRK only.
Eligibility Requirements
Each management group has specific administrative and clinical requirements. General criteria include:
- Completion of the appropriate refractive surgery application (linked at right).
- Commander’s authorization signed by a squadron commander (O-3 or above) – required for WRESP and AASD groups only.
- Retainability requirements:
- Air/Space Force and Army: 6 months of active duty
- Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard: 12 months of active duty
Note: Retainability is determined from the surgery date, not the time of application.
Applicants must also:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a stable prescription for more than 12 months
- Be capable of completing postoperative follow-up for 12 months
Post-Operative Duty Limiting Conditions
Following refractive eye surgery, active-duty members will be placed on a profile with
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) and
mobility restrictions, as well as other
duty-limiting conditions.
Non-deployable and not eligible for PCS immediately following surgery:
- PRK Procedures:
- Air/Space Force and Army: 60 days
- Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard: 90 days
- ICL Procedures:
Note: These timeframes may be extended depending on individual healing and clinical assessment.
Duty Limiting Conditions
Convalescent leave is required following surgery: at least 8 days for PRK and at least 9 days for ICL.
Additionally, during the initial 30-day recovery period for all procedures, patients must avoid swimming, firing weapons, participating in tactical night operations, using gas masks or camouflage face paint, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in contact sports. Exposure to chemicals, solvents, fumes, and dust should be minimized. Patients must avoid direct sunlight without UV-protective eyewear for 12 months following surgery. Driving is also restricted for at least 7 days after PRK and at least 2 days after ICL..