Lattice Degeneration and Class 3 Medical

[ATC Engineer]

I would like to get my FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate in order to become a Private Pilot. I am very near sighted with a contact lens prescription of -10.5 in both eyes. My vision is corrected to 20/15. I was diagnosed with lattice degeneration in both eyes. I went to a retina specialist and he said there are no holes or tears and he's not concerned, but I should see an ophthalmologist once per year. I do not have any significant problems regarding glare or peripheral vision. I understand that I will probably need a note from my retina specialist, but what are my chances of eventually obtaining a Class 3 certificate?

 

[murphey]

I would like to get my FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate in order to become a Private Pilot. I am very near sighted with a contact lens prescription of -10.5 in both eyes. My vision is corrected to 20/15. I was diagnosed with lattice degeneration in both eyes. I went to a retina specialist and he said there are no holes or tears and he's not concerned, but I should see an ophthalmologist once per year. I do not have any significant problems regarding glare or peripheral vision. I understand that I will probably need a note from my retina specialist, but what are my chances of eventually obtaining a Class 3 certificate?

I'm not an AME nor do I play one on TV, but having gone thru the vision issue early this year I can provide some insight. Dr. Bruce can provide authoritative suggestions.

1) You'll probably be required to carry glasses with you in addition to wearing the contacts - just in case you need to remove the contacts for some reason.

2) Have the retina specialist write a letter to the opthalmologist about the diagnosis and such (and give you a copy). Then have the opth fill out FAA 8500-7 and bring it with you to the AME. Make sure you keep a copy, too.

In other words, have everything you need with you on your trip to the AME.

3) The other option is to limit yourself to the Sport Pilot/LSA so there's no need for the medical exam.

 

[W. Stewart]

I am not an AME, but I am an ophthalmologist. I see no reason in the world why lattice degeneration would affect a flight physical in any way. Yes, you have an increased chance of having a retinal detachment in your lifetime, but other than that, so what? You have excellent corrected vision. Your medical will require your corrective lenses, of course.

Wells