No matter if it's local anesthesia, you should not drive. Dizziness and drowsiness could be side effects of local anesthetics.

This is something that you really need to ask your surgeon, as it depends upon the specific procedure that you are undergoing. In many simple surgical cases performed under local anesthesia, you may be able to drive. Again, I would encourage you to ask your surgeon regarding his or her specific recommendations.

Your surgeon should advise you on this as it depends on the procedure. However, quite often patients may drive after local anesthesia.

Harrison Solomon, M.D.