You should not drive immediately after pterygium removal surgery, and should only resume when your vision is clear enough and your clinician confirms it is safe.
Early period after surgery
In the first days the eye is red, watery, and often painful, with blurred vision from stitches, graft edges, and ointment. Driving during this time is unsafe and not legal if you cannot meet the usual standards.
- Arrange for someone to take you home after the operation.
- Use sunglasses outdoors to reduce glare from sunlight and headlights.
- Attend early follow-up appointments so your surgeon can monitor healing.
- Ask at each visit whether your current vision is safe for driving.
- Do not rely on the untreated eye alone if vision feels unbalanced or uncomfortable.
When driving usually becomes possible
Many people can consider daytime driving again within one to three weeks, depending on comfort and clarity. Night driving often needs to wait longer because glare from lights may be disturbing.
- Start with short, familiar routes in good weather and daylight.
- Use lubricating drops before setting off and keep some with you.
- Stop driving and seek advice if you notice double vision, sudden haze, or sharp pain.
- Remember that any recurrence or scarring that changes vision should be checked promptly.
- Continue long term eye protection measures, as sun exposure is linked with pterygium regrowth.
