Planning a vacation — and plastic surgery? You should probably read this.
Getting ready for a vacation is exciting. But if you’ve recently had a tummy tuck or breast surgery, you should probably give yourself a little more time before packing your bags.
To be clear, it’s possible to fly after plastic surgery. However, getting on a plane and flying too soon can create unnecessary risks like increased swelling to potentially serious blood clots.
At his Milwaukee, Wisconsin practice, Dr. Mark Bosbous has advised countless patients on surgery, timing, and travel. Here’s what you should know before takeoff.
Flying Too Soon Can Be Risky
Modern plastic surgery is faster with quicker recovery times than ever. You may feel just fine a few weeks, or even a few days, after your surgery. Given this, some may think that it’s okay to pop onto a plane and jet off to their next vacation.
But while you may feel back to (semi) normal, there’s a lot happening in your body. You’ll probably still be experiencing swelling, soreness, and difficulty moving, making both the flight and staying at the destination unpleasant.
Not only that, but travel often comes with a lot of aspects that most surgeons would advise against. Carrying luggage, standing or walking for long periods, and more can all be detrimental to your recovery.
There are also some potential complications that can arise from travel. Surgery can temporarily increase your risk of developing blood clots. While rare, getting on a plane can increase your risk of a serious complication, such as deep vein thrombosis or a possibly life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
How Soon Can You Fly After a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a significant procedure. During a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, a surgeon will remove excess skin and fat and, in many cases, tighten the underlying muscles.
In general, experts advise waiting a minimum of 7 to 10 days before flying after a tummy tuck. This should be understood as a general minimum — not a guarantee that traveling after 10 days will be safe.
In fact, some patients need to wait considerably longer than 10 days.
To truly know how long you should wait, it’s best to discuss the issue directly with your surgeon. Inform them of any planned travel, then follow their advice about best practices. This includes practices about luggage-carrying or long-distance walking.
What About Flying After Breast Surgery?
Depending on your procedure, recovery after breast surgery can be wildly different.
Someone undergoing breast augmentation may recover differently than someone having a breast reduction, lift, or reconstruction.
Generally speaking, experts advise waiting at least 5 to 7 days after your surgery before boarding a plane. Again, this is a minimum — your surgeon may recommend that you wait for a longer period of time based on your expected recovery and the duration of your flight.
During the first several weeks of your recovery, you will likely be sore, tender, and have restricted upper body movement. Performing basic travel actions, such as reaching into overhead compartments or carrying luggage, may exacerbate your condition.
Thankfully, if you’re worried about cabin pressure damaging your breast implants, you shouldn’t be. Normal changes in cabin pressure are not a concern for breast implants.
Tips for Flying After Plastic Surgery
Your plastic surgeon will offer the best advice for any travel plans. But once you’ve been cleared for travel, there are a few steps you can take to make the experience safer and more comfortable.
First, you can wear the appropriate attire. This usually involves simply comfortable clothing, but it may also involve compression stockings depending on your surgeon’s recommendation.
Next, you should try to keep up good health practices. This means eating well, staying hydrated, and moving as allowed by your surgeon, while still being careful not to over-exert.
Finally, you should keep medications accessible at all times. Follow your surgeon’s instructions, and don’t add any other medications — even something as small as aspirin — without first consulting your surgeon.
If you are experiencing unusual one-sided leg swelling or pain, sudden chest pain, or shortness of breath, seek prompt medical attention.
The Bottom Line
There’s no universal timeline for travel after surgery. The best plan is tailored to your specific needs — which is why it’s important to have a surgeon you trust.
Dr. Mark Bosbous has spent years helping patients from around the world reach their body goals. If you’re interested in plastic surgery, or just have some questions, Dr. Bosbous’ team would love to help you schedule a consultation.
Reach out today.