How Soon Can I Fly Home After the Facelift?

Travel of any type following facelift surgery can
potentially complicate the post-operative course, in most cases, patients have
recovered sufficiently to travel in about two weeks following surgery. Air
travel often involves prolonged periods of immobilization and because of this,
patients may be at risk for the development of blood clots in their
extremities. These blood clots, known as DVT’s can potentially represent a life
threatening phenomenon when they occur.There
are several risk factors associated with the development of DVT’s. These
include the length of the surgical procedure, use of hormonal replacements, or
birth control pills, cigarette smoking, obesity, a history of cancer, family
history of hypercoagulability, advanced age and a previous history of blood
clots.When
travel is necessary following cosmetic surgery, every step should be taken to
avoid this potential complication. Patients should use anti embolic compression
stockings, maintain hydration, and ambulate frequently when traveling. In
patients who have multiple risk factors, anticoagulants such as lovenox may be
necessary.If
you have plans for travel in the immediate post-operative period make sure you
discuss this issue with your plastic surgeon, It’s important to remember that
every patients situation is unique. For this reason, treatment needs to be
individualized for every patient.

Since you're flying overseas, two weeks is sufficient after your facelift to fly. The risk of hematoma formation and post op complication is reduced.