flying

[judge4617]

July 8, retina surgery with laser and gas bubble.  Doctor says attachment is perfect and no worry.  Problem is the gas bubble has not completely been absorbed. (about 25% left in eye)  We have cancelled numerous air flights since this detachment.  We have plans to fly on Sept 10 for 4 hours.  The doctor says the bubble should be gone by then.  Have you ever heard of a gas bubble staying longer than 10 weeks?  I do not want to fly if there is any danger with this eye.  What is your educated opinion?
I have gone off the steroid drops, only to experience severe pain and redness in retina detached eye.  Is it safe to be on steroid drops for over two months?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

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[berrywoo]

Yes, it is possible for the gas bubble to remain longer than 10 weeks, though unlikely. However, if your doctor has given you the okay then you should have no problems.

There are risks to taking any medications. Talk w/ your doctor about your current experience post steroid use. The tapering may not have been gradual enough or you may be experiencing a resurgence in inflammation. After long term steroid use it takes the body awhile to return to "normal".