When Can I Fly After Breast Implant Removal?

Question

I need to have my breast implants removed because 1 is leaking. I have had them for 25 years now. I may have the surgery done far away from home and would like to know after how many days I can take a flight back home (its about 14 hours flight)

Siamak Agha, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

You should be able to fly soon after the surgery since implant removal is a pretty simple procedure.  However, most surgeons will place a drain at the site of implant removal that may need 5 days of care before removal by a surgeon.  It would be best to stay around for this period of time as  a minimun.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Flying will be safe even a few days after surgery. You need to be aware of the risks of clot formation in the lower extremities and walk frequently during the flight. If drains are used this may prolong your stay.

	Best wishes.

Michael A. Jazayeri, MD · Answer

If you are planning to have surgery outside of your city or country, I would recommend spending at least 4 weeks in the area after your surgery.

	However, complications can occur even after the first month. Who is going to take care of them at that point?

	My recommendation is to have your surgery done with a surgeon who is readily available to you.

David Bogue, MD · Answer

Whether or not you can fly is less important than whether or not you should fly. The issue is follow up from your surgery. How long your postoperative recovery will be depends on many factors: the type (saline/silicone) of the leak, whether a full capsulectomy needs to be done, whether a reaugmentation is planned, if drains are to be placed, etc. Postoperative care is important. Be sure that you have the time and resources to stay in town for a week or two if necessary. Contact your surgeon prior to traveling. You may find it less expensive (and more convenient) to have this performed where you currently live and be closer to your operating surgeon in case of a complication.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If you are going to have a revision to replace your implants, you probably want to stay in the community for a week or two.

When Can I Fly After Breast Implant Removal?

Answers (7)

Answer: Flying after breast surgery.

Answer: Flying after breast surgery.

Answer: Revision augmentation

Answer: Revision augmentation

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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When Can I Fly After Breast Implant Removal?

Answers (7)

Answer: Flying after breast surgery.

Answer: Flying after breast surgery.

Answer: Revision augmentation

Answer: Revision augmentation

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.