questions about flying after surgery

[redux]

First of all thanks to all the folks posting on this website, has given me the courage and knowledge to move forward with surgery.

I'm having surgery done last week of july. Flying from midwest to cali. When should i schedule my return flight? post op day 1,2,3? Also what regimen of massage/lotion do you guys recommend post op? When should i start massaging, how often? What creams do you recommend to prevent/minimize skin blemishes and scarring? Thank you in advance for the advice.

[Dr. Elliot Jacobs]

I would generally recommend waiting at least 1-2 days after surgery before flying.  There are some studies which show some increased risks if you fly too soon after surgery.

Also, there may be a small bubble of air under the skin after your surgery.  This could be affected by the change in air pressure.

Finally, minimizing arm and chest movements after surgery is important to limit the amount of swelling and perhaps prevent any post operative bleeding.  Therefore, I do not advise lifting heavy bags or putting bags in the overhead bins of aircraft.  Better to use wheeled luggage and check it in.

Dr Jacobs

[redux]

Based on the above, I will probably fly out post-op day 2 and bring my brother with me. Thanks again.