LASIK aftercare
Can you drive after LASIK?
Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend road-tripper, or someone who just loves the freedom of driving, here’s what to expect when it comes to getting back behind the wheel after LASIK.
What to consider
Factors that affect driving after LASIK
A few things influence when you’ll be ready to drive.
Vision clarity
Make sure your vision is clear and stable before getting behind the wheel. Immediately after LASIK, it may be hazy and still adjusting.
Individual recovery
Everyone heals at different rates. Some people feel ready to drive sooner than others.
Sensitivity to light
Bright sunlight or headlights can be bothersome at first, so take precautions like wearing sunglasses.
The timeline
When is it safe to drive?
Your doctor gives the final word at your follow-up appointment. As a general guide:
First 24 hours
Arrange a driver
Driving immediately after LASIK is not advised. Your eyes need time to heal, and your vision may be hazy and still adjusting, so make sure someone can drive you home from your procedure.
Day after surgery
Most patients can drive
Most patients can safely drive the day after surgery. Your doctor will conduct a follow-up appointment and provide any additional guidance if needed.
Any time
Listen to your body
If you feel uncomfortable or unsure, wait until you feel confident in your vision. There’s no rush to get back on the road.
Tips for safe driving after LASIK
Use sunglasses
Protect your eyes from bright light, which can be bothersome while they adjust.
Take caution with night driving initially
Your eyes may be more sensitive to glare from headlights at night in the early days.
Stay hydrated
Keep your eyes moist with artificial tears as needed for a comfortable drive.
Everyone’s recovery is unique, so listen to your body, follow your LASIK surgeon’s advice, and embrace the freedom that LASIK brings. See the full aftercare guide for the complete recovery plan.
Common questions about LASIK recovery
After the first 24 hours you may gradually resume reading. Start with short sessions, take breaks, and rest your eyes if you notice discomfort or blur.
Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and whirlpools for one week. After at least one week you can get back in the water, following your post-op precautions.
Most patients see noticeably better within 24 hours and return to normal activities within a week. Vision continues to sharpen and stabilize over the first 3–6 months as healing completes.
Light indoor exercise can resume the day after surgery. Add moderate outdoor activity after a few days with protective eyewear, and more demanding activities after one week.
Foundation and lipstick are fine right away. Wait at least three days before any eye makeup, and check with your eye care professional if you are unsure.
Wait at least one month before rubbing your eyes, and ideally break the habit for good. Rubbing too soon can displace the healing corneal flap.
Non-contact activity can resume after a week. Contact sports can resume about three weeks after surgery with protective eyewear.
Any sunglasses with full UV protection. Your eyes will be light-sensitive at first, so wear them whenever you’re outdoors during the first weeks.
Yes, with the right protection. UV-blocking sunglasses, wraparound eyewear in dusty or windy conditions, and a gradual return to bright light all help your eyes heal.