Long Haul Flight - I have a history of swollen feet and legs after long haul flights generally. Can I fly in July?

Question

Hey, I’m scheduled to have breast reduction surgery in 2 weeks. I have booked a long flight to Hong Kong in July. Just wondering if I will be safe to fly. I have a history of swollen feet and legs after long haul flights generally. Thanks

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

It's unlikely that any two BR patients will recover at the same pace.  Much depends upon the health of the patient prior to surgery, and the level of physical activity and lifting following surgery.  Depending upon your recovery from the procedure, your plastic surgeon may shorten or lengthen this period. A long flight increases your risk of blood clots.  Ask your PS for a letter requesting that the flight attendant allow you to stand and walk up and down the aisles every 30 minutes or so to increase circulation.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Mark Soldin, MBChB · Answer

Thanks for your query.
Long haul flights have a vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism risk.
If you are young and well, and recovered from your surgery, you should be able to fly about 6 weeks after a breast reduction.
It would be good for you to stay well hydrated and keep moving your feet/walk in the plane- which helps good circulation and DVT prevention.
Best Mark

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

Usually patients are advised to wait for at least 2 to 6 weeks before being cleared for flights. However, the timeline should depend on your surgeon's protocols. Given that you are in good health pre and post op, and there are no complications noted after surgery you may be cleared as early as July. Just make sure to occasionally stand up and walk on the aisle during the flight to prevent blood pooling.

Simon Smith, BSc, MS, FRCS · Answer

Assuming all goes well, July is a reasonable time to expect to be flying long haul. Surgery outcomes are unpredictable, and if you had a significant wound complication you might end up needing prolonged dressings etc which could interfere with your travel plans. Talk to your breast surgon about what their specific advice toyou would be.
From an Essex Breast Surgeon!

Shareef Jandali, MD · Answer

Good morning,Great question! We have patients who ask about this frequently. The concern with flying post op is the risk of developing a DVT, or blood clot in your legs due to imobility. This has been found to be the highest within 2-4 weeks post op. You're plan to travel 2 months post op does not pose increased risk from a surgical standpoint. On another note, you may want to consult with your primary care doctor regarding your swollen legs/feet to determine if there are any underlying causes.  Best of luck!

Long Haul Flight - I have a history of swollen feet and legs after long haul flights generally. Can I fly in July?

Answers (5)

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