Is it safe to fly 3 weeks after Tumescent lipo on my flanks if I am thin and not much fat is being removed?

Thanks so much for your question.  Many plastic surgeons would recommend waiting 2-4 weeks after liposuction for international travel because of the higher risk of blood clots in the legs after surgery.  Be sure to wear compression stockings on the plane and get up every couple of hours to walk around during the flight.  Doing calf exercises by moving your feet up and down can also help increase circulation and decrease the risk of blood clots.  Hope this helps...best of luck!

Joyce C. Chen, MD, MPH, FACS

If you surgeon is comfortable with you traveling then it should be OK. I usually tell my patients who undergo a general (fully asleep) anesthesia if they are going on a long oversea flight to wait a full month. The reason for this is increased risk of blood clots. Like the other answers stated if you plan to fly overseas just wear compression socks, walk around the airplane as much as you can, pump your calves when sitting in the chair, and stay hydrated. 

In regards to getting back to work it is really dependent on how you feel at 3 days. If you have your energy and feel as though you can work it shouldn't be an issue. Your surgeon may ask you to continue to wear your compression while you start up working.

Enjoy your trip! 

Surjit S. Rai, MD (Dallas Plastic Surgeon)