When is it safe to take a long-haul flight (over 6 hours) post-Rhinoplasty?

Typically, after rhinoplasty, the external stitches and nasal splint are removed around one week after surgery. Depending on the clinic or the surgeon’s technique, internal nasal stitches may be removed up to 14 days post-surgery. Generally, patients are able to fly approximately two weeks after the procedure.
If it is not possible to stay until the 14th day after surgery, you can have the external splint and stitches removed at the clinic around one week after surgery and return home. The remaining internal nasal stitches can be safely removed in your home country by a qualified physician.
Since your flight is scheduled four weeks after surgery, this allows sufficient time for recovery, and it should be safe to travel at that time.

In our experience over the last 26 years, 1% of patients who undergo rhinoplasty surgery will experience a nasal hemorrhage, postoperatively, within the first 21 days after surgery. Staying close to your surgeon for a month postoperatively, makes a lot of sense. I hope this helps! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Absolutely. Patients are safe to fly and go back to their daily activities 4-5 days after their rhinoplasty/ septoplasty surgeries.

Hello and thank you for your question. I allow my patients to fly 5-7 days after surgery. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Answer from Dr. Sean Hill, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon at Lone Star Plastic Surgery in Frisco, TX:
Most patients can safely fly about 7–10 days after rhinoplasty, once the initial swelling has subsided and any external splints or sutures have been removed. That said, every case is unique, and your surgeon may recommend a slightly different timeline based on the details of your surgery and how you’re healing.
The biggest concerns with early air travel are increased swelling, sinus pressure, and discomfort — especially during takeoff and landing. Flying too soon can also increase the risk of bleeding or compromise delicate healing tissues.
If you’re traveling a long distance for surgery, I typically advise patients to stay local for at least one week post-op to ensure we can monitor healing and address any concerns before you’re cleared to fly.
At Lone Star Plastic Surgery, we always provide personalized aftercare instructions based on your procedure and recovery progress. And no matter where you’re having surgery, make sure your surgeon is board-certified and a member of The Rhinoplasty Society, which ensures a high level of expertise in both surgical technique and post-operative care.
Warmly,Dr. Sean HillBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonLone Star Plastic Surgery – Frisco, TX