Will I be able to ride in a car two days after surgery?

Question

I will be getting a mommy makeover in two months. Will I be able to ride in a car 2 days after surgery for three hours back home? Is it dangerous?

John A. Millard, MD, FACS · Answer

Great question.  Because the Mommy Makeover involves a Tummy Tuck, I use Lovenox times two dosed post op and I have all my patients on home calf squeezers for at least a week after surgery.  I believe that both of these are protective, even during your ride home.  I similar time that many of my patients experience in the care returning home after surgery here in Colorado.  If there are any concerns, stop and walk for a bit about half way home!

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question.  Generally, most patients can fly within 2-4 weeks after mommy makeover operation. I wish you all the best.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

You should be okay to do this if you're getting anything but a brazilian butt lift. However please take frequent breaks to reduce the risk of blood clots. Always listen to your surgeon's advice.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

After a tummy tuck, it is best to stay close to the surgeon for the first day after surgery.  At that point you can travel home, but must be careful.  There are specific issues you need to address with the surgeon regarding blood clots in the legs during long car rides.

Stephanie Beidler Teotia, MD · Answer

Yes, this is fine. I have many patients that travel from out-of-town that will drive in car.  However, you may have some discomfort and I highly suggest getting out of the car ever hour or so to walk around get some blood flow in your legs. I would also suggest using compression stockings to help with the development of possible blood clots.  Definitely speak to your surgeon regarding your traveling plans prior to your surgical procedure. Best of Luck to you!

Germán Newall, MD, FACS, FICS · Answer

Thank you for your question. You may want to have a family member or friend drive you because you will feel uncomfortable at the 2 day mark. Discuss your post-operative plan with your surgeon and get some feedback from him or her.

Farah Naz Khan, MD · Answer

Yes but it may not be comfortable and make sure you get out of the car every hour just to walk around for a bit...this will help lower your risk for forming blood clots after surgery. You may also want to ask your operating surgeon about the use of compression stockings and/or anticoagulants if you are at higher risk (i.e. smoker, on birth control, h/o clotting disorders, etc.) for developing blood clots. Good luck!

Steven M. Camp, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.This is a common situation in my practice where patients will often drive 2-3 hours away to have a procedure.  In cases where I am performing surgery with risk for complications like blood clots in the legs I will require my patients to have an overnight stay for monitoring and prevention of a blood clot.  Make sure to discuss your plans for recovery in detail with your plastic surgeon.Best Wishes

Daniel P. Markmann, MD · Answer

I definitely do not recommend leaving town 2 days after surgery.   Surgery has risks!  Most of the complications which occur after surgery occur within the first 2 weeks of surgery.  I always recommend out of town patients who live within a couple of hours of my office stay in town for at least for the first 2 appointments, and then return for follow up appointments several time over the next several weeks or months for follow up appointments to be sure they heal well.     I also have many patients travel in from other states and other  countries as well.   I always recommend they stay in town for at least one month to be sure they are healing well by the time they fly home.

Marwan R. Khalifeh, MD · Answer

If you are traveling short distances, 2 days after surgery, in general you should be fine. However, if you have risk factors for blood clotting and /or plan on traveling a longer distance, you should advise with your doctor about a blood clotting prophylaxis prescription if appropriate. Similarly, be cautious of over jarring car rides post surgery. Only your doctor will be able to determine if your travel may put you at risk.

Will I be able to ride in a car two days after surgery?

Answers (20)

More Mommy Makeover Questions

Why am I getting acne two weeks post op mommy makeover?

Breast augmentation and umbilical hernia repair? (photos)

Can an Upper abdominal lift be combined with a breast lift procedure?

When should I stop drinking before a tummy tuck and breast lift?

How long will I be in surgery for a Tummy Tuck and Breast Reduction?

500cc HP silicone implants too big for my 5'4 128 lb frame? Will I achieve cleavage? Should I get a mini TT or full? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS