Q. How soon after a breast aug revision is it OK to fly? I have to go out of town for a revision on my breast augmentation and it involves flying (it’s a 5 hour flight). I need to know when I can safely book my return ticket. Just as an example since I haven’t confirmed the surgery yet, if I fly on June 1st and have the surgery on the 2nd, when could I confidently book a return flight home? If I thought it would be the same amount of time as with my original surgery, I’d book a flight for about 10 days from the date of the surgery. I don’t want to take any chances however so I’d like to hear it from a professional.
A. Each physician will answer this question according to experience and understanding with flying (and underwater) pressures. I recommend not flying or going under water for at least 3 weeks following surgery with the following caveats:
- The incisions must be healed.
- No added stress to the patient or incision line. In the case of Breast Augmentation, the muscles are lifted and exertion with luggage and stress of flying can cause bleeding in the implant pocket or incision line.
- The trapped air in the pocket of an incision will expand and contract according to the pressure changes above and below sea level. That air will typically absorb normally within 2 weeks and then not be a concern.
- You may be taking sedative or opioid pain medications and may not be able to make the best decisions while on these drugs.
- Finding a suitable surgeon to assist you with a complication in a far-way location is most difficult.
Please discuss this issue with your surgeon. I wish you the best!
This information is not meant as medical advice. It is provided solely for education. Our practice would be pleased to discuss your unique circumstances and needs as they relate to these topics.
Give us a call at 410.602.3322 or email Lauri@DrDeanKane.com and make an appointment soon. We’re located on Reservoir Circle just a block off the Baltimore beltway, convenient to greater Baltimore, Annapolis, the Eastern Shore, Southern Pennsylvania, Delaware and Carroll County.
