Brinton Vision Provides Guidance on One of the Most Common LASIK Questions: “When Can I Drive Again?”

For many LASIK patients, returning to normal activities as quickly and safely as possible is a top priority. Driving, in particular, is one of the first everyday tasks patients are eager to resume after surgery. Brinton Vision, a nationally recognized leader in laser vision correction, has released a detailed resource to address the frequently asked question: “How long before I can drive after LASIK?” The article provides evidence-based insight into why driving is restricted immediately after surgery, what factors determine when it is safe to resume, and how patients can navigate the recovery period with confidence.

According to Brinton Vision, most patients can expect to resume driving the day after LASIK surgery—provided their vision meets legal driving standards and their surgeon confirms readiness during the post-operative exam. However, every patient’s healing timeline is unique, and driving too soon could jeopardize both the patient’s safety and the success of the surgery. The first 24 hours after LASIK are considered critical for early healing, and during that period, vision is often blurry, eyes are sensitive to light, and mild sedatives used during surgery may still be affecting cognitive function. For these reasons, patients are required to arrange transportation home immediately following the procedure and are cautioned not to drive until cleared by their doctor.

The post-operative visit, typically scheduled within 24 hours of surgery, is not simply a formality. At this appointment, the surgeon evaluates visual acuity, the condition of the corneal flap, and the presence of any side effects that could interfere with safe driving. The comprehensive examination ensures that patients meet the legal requirements for driving and are not experiencing lingering symptoms such as halos, glare, or discomfort that could impair reaction time or visual perception. Brinton Vision emphasizes that this careful evaluation process is essential for protecting patient well-being and achieving optimal surgical outcomes.

Patients should also be aware that even after being cleared for daytime driving, night driving may still present temporary challenges. It is not uncommon for individuals to experience night vision disturbances—such as glare, starbursts, or halos—during the early healing phase. These symptoms are generally short-lived and tend to improve over time, but they can make driving at night particularly difficult. Brinton Vision advises patients to monitor how their eyes respond to bright lights before attempting nighttime driving. In some cases, anti-reflective lenses or sunglasses may be recommended to help reduce glare and improve comfort. If symptoms persist beyond the expected healing period, further evaluation may be warranted to rule out complications or determine if a temporary corrective lens is needed.

For patients who experience lingering concerns about driving after surgery, Brinton Vision encourages open communication with their care team. Whether the issue is physical discomfort, visual anomalies, or general uncertainty, the practice offers clear and timely guidance to support each patient’s recovery. While the vast majority of patients experience rapid visual improvement, Brinton Vision stresses the importance of not rushing the recovery process and always deferring to the surgeon’s recommendations. Healing is not a one-size-fits-all experience, and individualized care is essential to long-term visual success.

Driving represents more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a symbol of independence. That’s why understanding when it’s safe to return to driving is such a vital component of LASIK recovery. Brinton Vision recognizes the emotional and practical significance of this milestone and is committed to ensuring that every patient has the tools and support needed to achieve it safely. The article clarifies that patients should never assume they are ready to drive based solely on how their eyes feel. Instead, the decision should always be grounded in a professional evaluation of visual acuity and ocular health, performed by a qualified LASIK doctor.

Brinton Vision is led by Dr. Jason Brinton, an internationally recognized refractive surgeon and one of the few in the country to offer all seven FDA-approved vision correction procedures. This comprehensive expertise allows the practice to tailor care to each patient’s specific needs and lifestyle, helping them achieve their vision goals with the safest and most effective options available. The practice’s reputation for excellence in patient education, surgical precision, and post-operative care continues to attract patients from across the Midwest and beyond.

For reporters covering LASIK, eye health, or advancements in vision correction, Brinton Vision offers a valuable resource on topics ranging from surgical innovation to patient outcomes. Dr. Brinton is available for comment on the importance of follow-up care in LASIK recovery and the implications of resuming activities like driving too soon after surgery. The article “How long before I can drive after LASIK?” presents a timely opportunity to explore the real-world considerations that shape the patient experience beyond the operating room.

To read the full article or schedule a consultation, visit www.brintonvision.com. For media inquiries, expert quotes, or to arrange an interview with Dr. Brinton, please contact the Brinton Vision team directly.

Brinton Vision continues to lead the way in patient education and surgical excellence, helping people see clearly—and live fully—with confidence in every step of their LASIK journey.