Is a 21 hour flight after surgery safe?

Question

I will be traveling out of the country to get a breast reduction and skinny bbl procedure. It will be a 21 hour flight to get there, and another 21 hour flight to get back home. Is this safe? How will I sit? I don't know it'll be possible for me to sit on my knees the entire flight.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Giving996032,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for your question,

Whether it's safe to take a 21-hour flight after surgery depends on several factors, including the type of surgery, your overall health, and how much time has passed since the procedure. The longer the time between your surgery and the flight, the better. Most surgeons recommend waiting at least 1 to 2 weeks for minor procedures and 4 to 6 weeks for major surgeries before taking a long flight

It's essential to consult your surgeon or healthcare provider before flying. They can give you personalized advice based on your specific situation, including any precautions you should take during the flight.

Sincerely, 
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol

Agustina Hilario Duran, MD · Answer

Traveling long distances soon after surgery poses risks, especially for procedures like a breast reduction and BBL. Extended immobility increases the risk of blood clots (DVT), so it’s crucial to follow post-op guidelines carefully. Most surgeons recommend waiting at least 2-3 weeks before long flights, but even then, you'll need special accommodations.
For the flight back, use a BBL pillow to offload pressure from your buttocks, and consider getting an aisle seat to stand and walk every hour. Compression garments and staying hydrated can also help with circulation. Confirm all details with your surgeon, as they may advise you on additional precautions or recommend a local stay for a safer recovery.

Bruce B. Kadz, MD, FACS · Answer

It's always best not to put pressure for prolonged periods or your buttocks after BBL for 2-3 months after surgery. If you must fly, I would make sure you see your surgeon for post op and seek their opinion. In general you can use your booty pillows under your hamstrings and pillows behind your lower back to reduce any pressure or buttocks when sitting and try to ambulate as much as possible during the flight. In general you must be very careful when to fly because you can also have to safeguard against blood clots, embolisms, would complications, as well as others.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I do not recommend people travel for elective surgical procedures.
I especially recommend people not travel to other countries for elective surgical procedures.
It’s a free world and people continue to do what they want.
Patients often do not recognize the importance of properly vetting plastic surgeons by having multiple in person consultations before selecting a provider.
Likewise, patient often fail to recognize the importance of proper in person follow up care.
 Patient often do not recognize the number of patients who need real concerns after surgery, the number of patients who end up needing revision surgery or that complications actually happened.
If you’ve flown on an airplane before, then you should be familiar with flight etiquette, including the need to stay in your seat in a regular sitting position, including sitting with your seatbelt on.
Your surgeon is responsible for your postoperative care.
I suggest you contact your provider if you want help with specifics.
My recommendation is to stay local.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

David Gray, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

I wouldn’t recommend a 21-hour flight until at least two to three weeks after a BBL procedure. Do you have enough vacation time saved up at work to stay a few weeks after your procedure and see the sights? If so, that would be best. 
If you absolutely must take this long flight soon after surgery, I suggest using a BBL pillow to keep the pressure off of your buttocks while sitting during the flight. Secure an aisle seat, as well, so that you can easily get up and walk periodically to improve your circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Wear your compression garment and compression socks during the flight as well.

Is a 21 hour flight after surgery safe?

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