Is it better to travel home in a car or plane after a tummy tuck?

Question

I live in Texas and having a Tummy Tuck and Lipo in Florida next month (Car ride is 20+hrs)... i will be there for a week after surgery... my question is if its better to ride in a car back home or plane? In the car i can keep legs elevated if i sit in the back, and can get off every 1-2 hours to walk for 10min... should i invest in the compression machine for my legs? Or should i extend the days i stay in Florida? Thanks

Ramsen Azizi, MD · Answer

You are still going to be tight, sore, and uncomfortable a week after your tummy tuck. A quick 1-2 hour flight is going to be a million times easier on you than a long car ride (you should have someone help you with your luggage, you won't be solo yet). I am ok with having my patients take a plane ride a week after surgery and usually recommned getting an aisle seat (business class if you can), and getting up every hour or so to walk to the bathroom in order to keep blood flowing. Every day you extend in Florida after a week will exponentially help you have an easier trip back (day 7 vs. day 8 vs. day 9 makes a difference). I personally do not have my patients buy the compression machine for the legs. I would run all this by your surgeon to see their input but this is generally how I would advise my patients. Best of luck on your journey!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. After undergoing a tummy tuck and liposuction procedure, it is important to take certain precautions during travel to ensure optimal healing and minimize risks. While both car and plane travel can be feasible, there are some factors to consider.

If you choose to travel by car, it is important to make sure you are as comfortable as possible during the long ride. This may include sitting in the backseat with your legs elevated and taking frequent breaks to walk and stretch. It is also recommended to invest in a compression machine to help with blood flow and reduce the risk of blood clots.

If you choose to travel by plane, it is important to discuss your plans with your surgeon beforehand. You may need to wait a certain amount of time before flying to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications such as blood clots. If you are cleared for air travel, it is recommended to wear compression stockings and take frequent walks up and down the aisle to improve circulation.

Ultimately, the decision between car and plane travel depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. It is important to discuss your options with your surgeon and carefully consider factors such as comfort, safety, and recovery time.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

This question is best answered by your surgeon who is most familiar with your health history and details of your surgery.  Regardless if you fly or drive it is a good idea to use compression stockings.  The sequential compression device is not necessary as you are awake and able to move your legs.  Driving will allow you to stop every two hours and walk around a bit.  If you fly you will want to walk around the plane when safe to do so as well as pump your feet/ankles when seated.  You will not be able to handle your luggage by yourself.  I typically like my patients to wait longer than a week after surgery before flying, but your surgeon will advise what is recommended for you.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Fierce941418,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Fierce941418, and thank you for your question. Well, it is pertinent to note that this depends more on the doctor's recommendations, since not all surgical techniques are the same. After a Tummy tuck, it is important that the patient understands that he or she will need care for a few days. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Is it better to travel home in a car or plane after a tummy tuck?

Answers (8)

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Is it better to travel home in a car or plane after a tummy tuck?

Answer: Is it better to travel home in a car or plane after a tummy tuck?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is it better to travel home in a car or plane after a tummy tuck?

Answers (8)

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Is it better to travel home in a car or plane after a tummy tuck?

Answer: Is it better to travel home in a car or plane after a tummy tuck?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.