Critical Care Surgeon Questions surgeon

How long after appendix surgery can you fly?

I had appendix surgery 3 days ago. How long after appendix surgery can you fly?

3 Answers

For an uncomplicated laparoscopic appendectomy, I would clear a patient to fly as long as they are aware that they are still in the window for developing an access (5-7 days post op). And any increase in pain or elevated temperature to go the local ER for evaluation.
Please consult Surgeon. it depends on the extensiveness of Surgery and lung collapse at abse of the lung/atelectasis.
When I have patients from out of town that require appendectomy I usually determine when they can fly using a few factors:
1. Was the surgery straightforward or complicated?
2. How long is the flight and are there places to divert?
3. What other factors specific to the individual patient could make it safe or unsafe to travel?

Ultimately it will depend on those and other factors and I recommend discussing it with your surgeon to determine the safest time to fly. Best of luck on your travel home!