LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a widely performed surgical procedure designed to correct common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This procedure reshapes the cornea to improve how light focuses on the retina, often reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. A frequent and understandable question for individuals considering LASIK is when they can safely resume daily activities, particularly driving, following the procedure.
Immediately After LASIK
Directly after your LASIK procedure, driving is not permitted. Your vision will likely be blurry or hazy, and you may experience light sensitivity. Additionally, sedative medications are often administered to help you relax during the surgery, which can impair your coordination and reaction time. Therefore, it is necessary to arrange for someone to drive you home from the surgical center.
Factors Determining When You Can Drive
The timeline for resuming driving after LASIK varies for each individual, but most patients receive clearance relatively quickly. A primary factor is achieving a certain level of visual acuity. In the United States, the legal requirement for driving in most states is a visual acuity of 20/40 or better. Many LASIK patients meet or exceed this standard within 24 hours of their surgery.
Your surgeon will assess your vision at a follow-up appointment, typically scheduled the day after your procedure. Beyond numerical visual acuity, the absence of significant blurriness, excessive glare, or halos that could impair your ability to see clearly is also considered. The surgeon’s specific clearance is paramount, as individual healing rates differ.
Driving Safety in the Healing Period
Even after receiving clearance to drive, you might experience various visual phenomena during the initial healing period. Fluctuating vision is common as the corneal tissue stabilizes. Increased glare, halos around lights, and starbursts are also frequently reported side effects. These issues can make it challenging to discern road signs, traffic lights, or other vehicles in low-light conditions.
Dry eyes are another common temporary side effect of LASIK that can impact visual comfort and clarity. Using lubricating eye drops as recommended by your surgeon can help manage this discomfort. It is often advisable to avoid night driving for a period, perhaps a week or more, until these visual disturbances significantly diminish. Taking frequent breaks during longer drives can also help alleviate eye strain and dryness.
Doctor’s Instructions and Follow-Up
Adhering to your LASIK surgeon’s post-operative instructions is important for a safe recovery. These instructions typically include guidelines for using prescribed eye drops, avoiding certain activities, and protecting your eyes.
During these appointments, your surgeon will monitor your healing progress, assess your visual acuity, and provide personalized guidance on when it is safe to resume driving. They will confirm your vision meets legal driving standards and manage any temporary side effects. The surgeon’s clearance indicates you can safely return to driving.