Question:
Flying after Surgery

Hi all, I was wondering, is there a time frame that you should wait before flying anywhere? I am have a Lap RNY done in Oct, and we had been planning on going to Des Moines (from Sacramento) around the end of the month? (which should be about 2-3 weeks after surgery) Would this be a problem, should I just wait to travel until later? Part of the reason I want to do it then is so that I can lump it in with my medical leave since I won't have any PTO to take the time off later. My work doesn't let you take time w/o pay unless it's a special circumstance. Thanks! Bev    — Beverly M. (posted on September 11, 2003)

September 11, 2003
Beverly, this is a question to address with your surgeon....I flew 6 weeks after my surgery...and was fine...maybe I could have sooner, but he reccomended 6-8 weeks. Good luck! lap rny 4/9/03 311/222/-89
   — Peg L

September 11, 2003
I've met many online who had this surgery in Mexico. Those individuals end up flying within a week.
   — [Deactivated Member]

September 11, 2003
I would check with your surgeon, and see how he/she feels about it. It also depends on how you feel after surgery. Are you having an open procedure or lap? You are at risk for blood clot formation for approximately 6 weeks after surgery, so if you fly within that time frame, just make sure that you get up and walk around on the plane. Try not to sit for more than an hour at a time. Most patients that have their procedure done laparoscopic are back to work in three to four weeks, so if your surgeon say it is ok, it will just depend on how you feel.
   — Kathy M.

September 11, 2003
I was one of those who went to Mexico. I flew home 5 days post op and had NO problems what so ever and I was a heavy weight! Shawna 445/340/165
   — SMG I.

September 11, 2003
Thanks all, I am planning on asking him just that when I see him on the 29th (that's also when I will get my actual date)YAY! I appreciate the insight. I had heard many different things, I suppose it also depends on how well you heal, etc. So we'll see what happens.
   — Beverly M.