No, you cannot drive home. A mild sedative (Temazepam) is given and driving is forbidden under the influence. You will usually feel a little sleepy after surgery, your eyes will water and will want to close.
You can not drive until you have been seen by the surgeon the day after your procedure and had the plastic shields removed.
Returning to work depends on the type of work that you do.
The recovery time is rapid, but reading the computer screen (or reading in general) may be difficult for the first two weeks while the tissue is healing.
Minor visual clarity changes are also common within the first 10 – 14 days post-operatively. If you work in a dusty or aquatic environment it may be advised to take a short period of leave following surgery, perhaps a few days. Otherwise normal safety glasses precautions may be sufficient.
A medical certificate can be arranged by LASIK staff.