How long after LASIK can I drive?
You're considering LASIK, and now you’re imagining life without glasses or contacts. One of the first questions we often hear is, "How long after LASIK can I drive again?" At Atlantic Eye Laser Centre, your safety is our priority, so here's everything you need to know.
Immediately after LASIK
Right after your procedure, your vision might be blurry or a little hazy. You’ll definitely need someone else to drive you home that day. It’s important to rest your eyes, avoiding screens and bright lights.
Next-day driving
Most people get cleared to drive the day after LASIK. During your next-day follow-up, we’ll check your vision thoroughly. Once we confirm your vision meets the legal driving standards and you're comfortable, you're good to go!
It varies from person to person
While most people can drive the next day, everyone's eyes heal at different speeds. Some patients see perfectly within hours; others might need a bit longer. It’s all normal. We always provide personalised advice based on your recovery.
Night driving considerations
In the first weeks after LASIK, you might notice some glare or halos around lights, especially at night. This usually fades quickly as your eyes continue healing. We recommend extra caution driving at night during the initial recovery period.
Listening to your eyes
Always listen to your body. If your vision feels slightly off, or you're uncomfortable, it's best to wait an extra day or two. We’re here to guide you and ensure you're safe.
Tips for a quick recovery
- Rest your eyes as much as possible the day of the procedure
- Avoid rubbing your eyes to allow them to heal properly
- Follow your eye drops schedule exactly as advised.
Freedom and safety
LASIK isn't just about ditching glasses—it's about gaining freedom in everyday life, including driving. Imagine clearly seeing street signs, enjoying night drives, or spontaneously heading out without worrying about contacts.
Ready to take the next step?
Curious if LASIK is right for your eyes and lifestyle? Take our quick suitability self-test now. It’s a simple first step towards clear, carefree vision.
Find out if you are suitable for laser eye surgery
Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.
Find out if you could benefit from this life changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
Our most popular procedures
What our patients say…
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The best care, the best treatment and the best doctors.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Everything was done with care and the doctor explained everything in detail. My surgery was a success and my sight has significantly improved – I no longer use glasses.”
N.N.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“All I can say is WOW! I feel like I have new eyes.
Thank you just doesn’t even began to say how grateful I am. Your hole team is an absolute pleasure to be around. You guys rock”
S.B.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The service is excellent and the doctors are experts in their fields. I felt relaxed and confident that I was in great hands. Staff are warm, friendly and very helpful.”
F.W.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I would refer Dr Beatty to anyone interested in LASIK or PRK eye surgery. The entire experience was really pleasant with his and his staff’s professional advice and care before, during and after the surgery.
I am very thankful to be able to look at the world and go about my day to day activities without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses.”
P.M.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Best money spent ever. I am so happy with the results after I had LASIK done.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“BEST decision and results after I had my LASIK done by Doctor Beatty!”
A.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I will definitely recommend Dr Beatty. I am so happy with my LASIK.”
R.B.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Dr Daemon McClunan and the entire staff at Atlantic Eye Centre, Foreshore are beyond AMAZING. The medical care I received from Dr McClunan was outstanding and the staff was always friendly and professional.”
M.M.We have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.
Hi, I’m Daemon McClunan
I’m proud to be the founder of both the Atlantic Eye Centre, a leading eye specialist centre; and LIQID Medical Pty, an award-winning biotech company. My passion for research and innovation has led me to create four patented devices, and earn various prestigious awards during my specialist training.
With a medical degree from Stellenbosch University, a specialist degree from the University of Cape Town, and experience working in renowned Laser Eye Surgery centres in Canada, Germany, India and London, I’m dedicated to providing top-tier care.
Beyond the clinic, I’ve embarked on humanitarian missions, travelling over 15,000km by motorbike to provide rural eye screenings. In my downtime, I love mountain biking, diving, and spending quality time with my family.
My goal is to provide a world-class service which ensures every patient leaves my practice feeling happier than when they first walked in.
Dr Daemon McClunan
MBChB(SU), DipOphth(SA), MMed(UCT), FcOphth(SA)
Hi, I’m James Beatty
I pride myself on providing exceptional eye care with state-of-the-art equipment and a team dedicated to excellence. With a focus on refractive surgery, I bring years of experience and expertise to each patient’s journey towards clearer vision.
As an active member of esteemed Ophthalmologist societies including the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa and the South African Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, I stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field.
Additionally, my affiliation with the Health Professions Council of South Africa and the South African Glaucoma Society underscores my commitment to upholding the highest standards of care.
With a passion for laser surgery, I strive to deliver optimal outcomes for every patient.
Dr James Beatty
MB ChB (UCT) FCS (SA) Ophth MMed (Stel) Ophth
