Driving After Cataract Surgery: How Soon Can You Safely Get Back Behind the Wheel?

You've had your cataract surgery, the world’s looking brighter, and you’re ready to get back to normal life — starting with your car keys. But wait! How soon can you actually drive after surgery? And what about night driving, sunglasses, or that cheeky dip in the pool on holiday?

Here’s everything you need to know about driving after cataract surgery, plus a few extras you might not have considered.

What Happens to Your Vision After Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy natural lens in your eye and replacing it with a clear, artificial one — called an intraocular lens (IOL). Most people notice a significant improvement in their vision within 24 to 48 hours, but the healing process continues for several weeks.

You may experience:

• Improved brightness and colour perception

• Sharper, clearer distance vision

• Some light sensitivity

• Mild eye dryness or itchiness (which usually settles quickly)

It’s a quick procedure (often under 30 minutes), but because your vision is such a key part of safe driving, you must meet specific legal standards before hitting the road.

 So… When Can You Drive Again?

Most people can resume driving within 1 to 3 days after surgery — if the following conditions are met:

✅ You can read a car number plate from 20 metres

✅ Your vision is at least 6/12 on the Snellen chart (with or without glasses)

✅ Your consultant has confirmed you’re safe to drive

✅ You feel confident and comfortable behind the wheel

Don't rush it. Even if you think your vision feels fine, always wait for that post-op check where your surgeon or optometrist will confirm you meet DVLA standards.

What About Night Driving?

Ah yes, the dreaded glare. After cataract surgery, night driving can feel very different, especially in the first few weeks. You may experience:

• Halos or starbursts around headlights

• Increased glare from streetlights

• Light sensitivity or trouble adjusting between light and dark

This is totally normal and usually improves within a few weeks. In the meantime, it’s a good idea to avoid driving at night, especially long distances or unfamiliar routes. If you’re unsure, stick to daytime driving until your vision feels stable and your consultant gives you the green light.

😎 Should I Wear Sunglasses?

Absolutely. Your eyes might feel more sensitive to light, particularly bright daylight or glare off surfaces like car windscreens, water or pavements. Dark sunglasses — preferably with UV protection and polarised lenses — can really help.

In fact, keeping a pair in the car is a smart move anyway, even post-recovery.

Bonus tip: Choose wraparound styles for extra comfort on windy or sunny days, especially if you're heading abroad.

Planning a Holiday? Read This First...

If you’re the type to book a cheeky getaway straight after ticking cataract surgery off the list, here are a few things to consider:

Can I Go Swimming?

Not just yet! Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs and seawater for at least two weeks. Even if your eye feels fine, you’ll still be healing internally. Water (especially chlorinated or salty water) increases the risk of infection — and goggles don’t offer full protection.

Can I Fly?

Yes — in most cases, you can fly within a few days. Cataract surgery doesn’t affect your air pressure tolerance. But do let your surgeon know if you’re travelling far — especially long-haul — as they may want to see you before or after you fly.

🕶 Travel Essentials:

• Sunglasses (wraparound/polarised)

• Prescribed eye drops (keep them in hand luggage)

• Eye shield for sleeping (especially in the first few nights)

• Backup reading glasses if you still use them

  
  

Other Things to Consider Before Driving Again

• Reaction time: Test how quickly you can spot and respond to obstacles before you drive, even on familiar roads.

• Multifocal lenses: If you’ve had premium IOLs implanted (like multifocal or toric lenses), allow yourself time to adapt to depth perception and focusing at different distances.

• Medication: If you're still using pupil-dilating drops or anti-inflammatories, check with your doctor before driving — some drops may temporarily affect focus.

  
  

  

  
  

TLDR - FAQs: Driving After Cataract Surgery

How soon can I drive after cataract surgery?Most patients are back behind the wheel within 1–3 days, provided they meet DVLA visual standards and feel safe and confident.

Can I drive at night straight away?We recommend holding off for a few weeks, as glare and halos can be distracting until your eyes fully adjust.

Do I still need glasses?Possibly — depending on the type of lens implant. Many people are glasses-free for distance but may need help for reading or screen time.

Can I go swimming or use a hot tub?Not for two weeks. The risk of infection is too high while your eye is still healing.

Is it safe to fly?Usually yes, within a few days — but always double-check with your surgeon if you’re flying soon after surgery.

Final Thoughts

Cataract surgery is one of the most successful and transformative procedures out there — but the key to a smooth recovery is knowing when to take it easy, and when to jump back into everyday life.

If you're unsure about anything — from night driving to holiday plans — just ask. We’ll always guide you through it safely and clearly.

Ready to restore your vision?📞 Book your free consultation and let’s talk about cataract surgery, recovery and beyond.