The main concern about flying after surgery is the risk for developing blood clots.A long flight, defined as a flight lasting over six hours, is one risk factor for developing blood clots.Surgery, especially surgery done using general anesthesia, is another risk factor.When additive risk factors are put together, the chance of developing blood clots goes up.There have been studies showing a higher chance of developing blood clots for people sitting in the window seats as opposed to sitting in the aisle seats on airplanes.This is believed to be because people in the aisle seats are more likely to get up and stretch their legs. There is no specific timeframe, and each doctor has his own or her own recommendations for when it's okay to fly after surgery.There are many good reasons to stay local for surgery.At the same time, the experience of the surgeon can make a large impact on the outcome of the results.Talk to your surgeon.Remember to stretch your legs, get up and walk and do some calf exercises along flights. Also, remember to stay hydrated.Alert your surgeon immediately if you develop any significant swelling or leg pains after surgeries, especially if on only one side.Best of luck,Mats Hagstrom, M.D.
With any type of liposuction, I usually advise my patients to avoid long flights fr the first couple of weeks following the procedure. The decreased cabin pressure can contribute to swelling. If you have to fly shortly after a liposuction be certain to wear your compression garments and get out of your seat and walk in the isle. Walking will help decrease the rise of developed blood clots in the legs following the surgery. Best wishes Dr Lepore.
