My surgery is scheduled for Feb 27, and I am flying out March 1 at night (so, Feb 27, 28, then March 1). I have already discussed it with my surgeon and he says it will be okay, but now I am wondering if I should drive home (~11 hours) instead of flying, for the best possible healing scenario. Additionally, will it affect my healing if I fly back out a week later for suture removal, and then immediately after? Or should I drive? (I live out of state from my surgeon.) Thank you so much!
Answer
There are too many variables in the your question to be able to answer them appropriately. More details are needed. It's important to go to a surgeon who has extensive experience performing eyelid surgery, and make sure you're available for post operative follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process. Study your prospective surgeon's before and after blepharoplasty photo gallery to make sure that it is extensive and reflective of the work that they do.
Dr. William Portuese, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answer
Blepharoplasty is a common procedure many of us do. Yes, techniques vary and I would avoid those that remove fat versus repositioning fat in the lower lid as you will get hollow eyes as you age. Despite this, many surgeons out there still prefer to remove fat when there are bags and troughs. If there was a good surgeon in town, I would suggest staying home. If you're dead set on going, your surgeon says you can fly so fly... and if you have an issue, you should be instructed on how to manage it in the absence of your surgeon with wound separations and maybe bleeding being the most concerning.
Dr. Curtis Wong, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answer
Dear thepbcup, (Upper Lid Blepharoplasty I Presume? ) I would suggest that you speak with your surgeon in detail regarding your flight schedule and concerns. I would not suggest driving that distance by yourself after surgery. Especially eyelid surgery as you may have some blurring of the vision caused by drops, ointment and may be taking pain medications. Do make sure you speak with your surgeon regarding using moisturizing eyedrops or ointment while you are on the plane. The recycled air can be drying as well as watching the air vent direction so it is not directly in your face. It may be less expensive in the long run to stay in town for seven days unless you have obligations you must attend to. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.
Dr. Michael Elam, MD (retired)
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answer
These are important questions that need to be answered only by the doctor that does the surgery and knows your particular circumstances. To rely on an internet doctor that has never even met you is not good medicine.
Dr. Ronald V. DeMars, MD (Retired)
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
