When can I fly after tummy tuck and lipo?

Question

I had my surgery on monday and due to fly home on monday from poland back to northern ireland. Is it ok to fly this soon. Have u any advice for flying. I am planning on wearing my compression socks

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Generally, most patients can fly within 2 to 4 weeks after Tummy Tuck surgery. However, car or airplane travel should be avoided to prevent the risk of blood clots in the legs. I wish you all the best.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. It is common to wait about two weeks after tummy tuck to fly, however particulars of your health history, your recovery and your surgeon's preference will affect how they advise you. It is also important while travelling that you avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting. I recommend that you ask your surgeon directly as they know your situation the best.Take care

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

As long as there are no acute issues, I think a patient can fly very comfortably at about the two week mark. You would need someone to help with your luggage, as you don't want to strain the muscle repair for about six weeks.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

This is is one of those postoperative management questions, the answer to which will be different for every PS.  Consider not only the time in flight but also the time spent waiting in the security checkin line and in the waiting area prior to boarding.  Only your surgeon knows how you and your body responded to the procedures and the status of your recovery. Staying close to your PS after a TT for the first 4 to 6 weeks after surgery is preferred. Leaving the country can present problems with followup should a problem arise.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

This question is best answered by your surgeon as she/he is most familiar with the details of your surgery and how you've been progressing through recovery.  Typically it's recommended to wait two to three weeks after surgery before flying due to concerns of blood clots.  Your surgeon may recommend medication depending on your health history.  When flying get up and move around when it is safe to do so.  When seated pump your ankles regularly and wear compression socks.  Keep in mind if you have lifting restrictions as well.  You may need assistance with your luggage.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

Risks of DVT and PE are increased with flying after surgery and 4 weeks is recommended. The risks are dependent a lot on you and best to discuss this with your PS.

Ricardo Ventura, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question,
I recommend to those patients from outside of the country to stay at least 12-15 days after the procedure in this way you and your PS can be sure that you don’t have any complications and you could have a good flight back home; of course every plastic surgeon have their own opinion., you should consult your surgeon. You may need help with the suitcase, you should not carry something heavy.All the best!!

When can I fly after tummy tuck and lipo?

Answers (7)

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