Lens replacement surgery can be suitable if you drive a lot at night, but lens selection must prioritise contrast and minimise distracting visual effects.
Considerations for frequent night drivers
Night driving demands clear vision, good contrast, and manageable glare from headlights. Some lens types are better suited than others for people who spend many hours on the road.
- Monofocal lenses targeted for distance usually give the cleanest night image
- Multifocal lenses can cause halos or starbursts that may bother some drivers
- Correcting significant astigmatism with toric lenses can improve clarity
- Healthy tear film and surface reduce scattered light and blur
- Clean windscreens and optional anti-glare glasses also help
Planning your surgery and return to driving
Open communication about your driving habits is essential. Together you and your surgeon can plan timing, lens choice, and when to resume driving safely.
- Schedule surgery to allow recovery and adaptation before major journeys
- Have vision formally checked against driving standards before returning
- Start with familiar local routes and avoid challenging conditions at first
- Report ongoing halos, double images, or difficulty judging distance
- Expect that some people still prefer mild prescription glasses for night work
