Question:
Flying... How soon after surgery can one safely fly?

I have to take 6 weeks off of work because I have a job that requires physical interventions that can sometimes be rough. So, since I have to take the 6 weeks, I was thinking of taking the last 2 weeks and fly down south and enjoy a little vacation. But before I do, how did ya'll feel after week 2 and on? Can you travel by vehicle? If I wanted to drive from NY to Florida, is it possible? and if so, when? Curious to see how hows fare. What is the earliest you traveled post-op? Thank you.    — A. Me (posted on February 26, 2010)

February 26, 2010
I had RNY on 2 June and fly to LA on the 1st of Dec w/o problems other than making sure I drank my protein water. I took a letter from my doctor alerting the staff I was a RNY patient and to allow me to add my protein powder to my water. They were all very kind and allowed it w/o problems. Good luck.....
   — karensaporito

February 26, 2010
Tina you should consult your surgeon because it will depend on many factors. At 2 weeks I wanted to fly from ME to the midwest and my surgeon said no. However he said I could drive as long as I stopped and stretched at least every 2 hours. I did the drive and didn't have any problems at all. I was still on my liquid diet so I took my Unjury with me for meals. Tina you really need to speak with your surgeon since it will depend on the surgery you have, how you do with the actual surgery, and several other factors. I listened to my surgeon even though I felt I was okay to fly. I kept thinking of the many people that have surgery out of the country and then fly home days after but I followed my surgeons advise anyway. Good luck.
   — Caribou ME

February 26, 2010
I flew from michigan to England 8 weeks after my surgery and had no problems, and I'm sure I could have done it at 4 weeks. As long as you get up and walk around like you should do on any flight so you don't get blood clots you should be ok. Check with your doctor, but I doubt it will be a problem...have fun!
   — Karen C.

February 27, 2010
I had the gastric sleeve in the Dominican Republic and was able to fly home to Texas 1 week after surgery! The flight wasn't that comfortable however lol. But I would say it depends on how quickly you heal and how well you feel, but I think you should be just fine =)
   — callen3640

February 28, 2010
You need to ask your surgeon, everybody's situation is different. I took a 30 min flight at 7 days post op no problem and 2 months later took a 4hr flight no problem with driving for 6hrs.
   — marwilldoit