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When You Can Drive

You may drive approximately four to six weeks after the date of your surgery. The reasons for not driving immediately are:

  • You don't want to drive when you have narcotic medications in your system.
  • You do not want to hit the steering wheel if you have some sort of accident or even a "fender-bender." You may, however, be a passenger in the front seat. Remember to always wear your seat belt.
  • The act of driving normally involves turning your torso in many directions, especially in heavy traffic. Most times, we are not aware of all the turning that we do while driving. But if your torso is still "sore," you might not be able to turn as you need to, thus increasing your chances of having an accident.

Weill Cornell Medicine Cardiothoracic Surgery 525 East 68th Street
Box 110
Suite M 404
New York, NY 10065 Directions
Phone: (212) 746-5166