No, you shouldn’t drive yourself home after laser eye surgery. Your vision will be slightly blurred and you may be sensitive to light and have scratchy eyes, so it isn’t safe to drive. You’ll need a friend, family member or taxi to get you home.
Most people feel ready to drive again within 24–48 hours, but this varies according to the surgery you have had. For example, LASEK takes longer to recover driving vision than LASIK. You should only drive once your surgeon has confirmed that your vision is clear and comfortable enough, and that it is safe to do so.
Why You Shouldn’t Drive Right After Surgery
Straight after surgery, your vision may be:
- Blurry or hazy
- Sensitive to light and glare
- Affected by protective eye shields or bandages
Even if you feel “mostly fine”, these changes can make it harder to judge distances, see clearly in traffic or react quickly. For your safety, and the safety of others, it’s important not to drive yourself home.
When It’s Safe to Drive Again
Your vision usually improves over the first day or two, whether you’ve had LASIK, LASEK or SMILE. However, everyone heals differently. Your surgeon or optometrist will check your eyes and let you know when it’s safe for you to drive again.
It’s sensible to plan ahead: arrange transport for the day of surgery and, if possible, for your first follow-up appointment too.
Tips for a Smooth Return to Driving
When you are told it’s safe to drive again:
- Start with short, familiar routes
- Drive in daylight at first, avoiding night driving until your vision feels settled
- Wear sunglasses if you’re sensitive to light
- Stop and rest if your eyes feel sore, dry or strained
If you are unsure whether you’re ready to drive, check with your surgical team before getting behind the wheel.
