When is it safe to fly after a mommy makeover?

Question

TT-BL-BA: Planning to fly from CA back to Hawaii. That's about a 5.5hr flight. When is it safe to fly? What is the recommendation to stay in town for post-op visits?

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

This is a very common question. In my practice, I recommend no flying for 2 weeks after surgery.  Flying very soon after surgery, especially long flights, may increase the risk of blood clots in the legs.

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.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

You do not want to plant to fly for at least two weeks following your surgery. My best,
Dr. Sheila Nazarian
@drsheilanazarian on Instagram

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

The main risk (also one for passengers without surgery) will be the possibility of developing a clot in one of your deep leg veins, DVT, that could travel to your lungs (Pulmonary Embolism). Venous blood clot risk factors include sitting for prolonged times (for example prolonged plane flights or road trips) obesity, oral contraceptive use, sedentary lifestyle, familial clotting disorders. to minimize this from happening to you, I would keep hydrated, wear TED stockings, walk around often and frequently, keep your legs elevated if possible and mover your legs, ankles and feet often while sitting.You should discuss your concerns with your surgeon to see what is best for you. #flyingpostop#tummytuck#TT

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

You should stay in town for 2 weeks.  My out of town patients typically stay in hotels with dedicated nursing staff.  The operation should be tailored to your specifications and anatomy to produce a dramatic result. Seek out a plastic surgeon who has performed these combination procedures hundreds of times and has a great number of reviews and before and after pictures.Kenneth Hughes, MDBeverly Hills, CA

Shim Ching, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Ideally it would be about two weeks after your procedure.  At one week, you may still have surgical drains and your mobility will still be limited.  Your surgeon could best advise you.  Our patients can travel interisland a week afterwards, but this is a much shorter trip and perhaps you should remain in California for a longer period of time so your surgeon could monitor your recovery for a longer period of time.Aloha,Shim Ching, MD

Jimmy S. Firouz, MD, FACS · Answer

Given the complexity of a mommy makeover procedure, I would advise flying no earlier than 10 days post op from your procedure.  Consult your board certified plastic surgeon on what his exact instructions are when it comes to flying post surgery!

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Usually a mommy makeover is a physiologically significant combination of procedures. In my own practice I would insist that you stay for at least two weeks after the operation if you live five and half hours away by commercial flight. This is an important discussion to have with your own surgeon.

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I would say that you should wait at least one week before traveling after the mommy makeover.  However, this needs to be addressed by your operating surgeon as the protocol varies from surgeon to surgeon.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You will want to check with your surgeon as opinions vary.  You will typically want to wait two to three weeks after surgery before flying home.  This will give you time to be close to your surgeon for post op visits including drain removal.  When flying you will want to get up and move around a bit when safe to do so.  When seated be sure to "pump" your ankles regularly.  Think about writing the alphabet with your feet.  Depending on your surgeon's preference you may be advised to take medication to prevent blood clot formation or perhaps wear compression socks.

When is it safe to fly after a mommy makeover?

Answers (12)

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