Can I Reasonably Take a 2 Hour Flight 4 Days After a Tummy Tuck with a Quilted Closure?

Thanks for the question. Generally, most patients can fly within 2 to 4 weeks after Tummy Tuck surgery. However, car or airplane travel should be avoided to prevent the risk of blood clots in the legs. I wish you all the best.

The three things to consider when flying after tummy tuck.  First you must discuss with your surgeon how you are going to get care if you have a problem. Second, somebody must do the heavy bag lifting for you.  Third, you must get up and  walk frequently to avoid blood clots in your legs.  Safe travels.

There are a couple of concerns here:

1) exertion - don't be moving your own luggage, or trying to put it in an overhead bin.  Too much exertion could cause a hematoma, or popping of a suture.

2)  DVT risk.  As a fresh post-op, you are still in a state where you are at elevated risk for DVT's (blood clots in the leg).  This should be discussed with your surgeon before you go.  They may suggest anti-embolism stockings or even a shot of Lovenox, depending on your Caprini DVT risk score.

 

Hello. At four days post op flying could still be risky. If you must fly however your risk can be some what managed by wearing your stockings and be sure to stand whenever possible. Be sure to inform your plastic surgeon before hand for additional information.

Jaime Perez, MD
Tummy Tuck Specialist
Plastic Surgery Center of Tampa

2 hours should not be a problem but make sure you discuss with your plastic surgeon. Keep in mind that a 2 hour flight may have delays and that you could end up sitting for much longer.

You should be able to do that. You may need a wheelchair at the airports. You should discuss the need for treatment to avoid blood clots if you are at risk, and many patients having tummy tucks are at high risk. You can check your own risk profile by googling "Caprini score."

All the best. 

You should safely be able to take a 2 hour flight 4 days after your Tummy Tuck, but before you schedule that, discuss this with your surgeon.  You are under his care and should follow his instructions for your best result.