Air travel after orbital decompression

[BigBrownI]

Hi, I had orbital decompression (involved fracture of the bones at the top of the nose) 3 weeks ago. Is it safe to travel by plane?  Thanks much!

[BigBrownI]

Thanks so much for your responses, Dr. Mathul and Nikodicreta!  Yes, I was checked by my doctor 1 and 3 weeks post-surgery. She agreed I can travel and I just wanted to get a second opinion (not that I don't trust my doctor, I am just curious!).

I feel better now knowing that us who went trough this procedure are able to travel by air.

Thanks again!   :)

[TheLightSeeker]

I would try to find out by checking with Aerospace Medical Association
Medical Guidelines Task Force in Alexandria, VA (if this info  is available.)
My advice as well is to check with your surgeon for post surgery care instuctions regarding air travel. It may involve another visit there to evaluate your recovery progress first, before a definite answer could be given.
There are many variables as Dr. Mathur mentioned.
Also it may be wise to get something in writing, as airlines may refuse
anyone if they suspect any possible medical complications.
My wife and I were almost in this situation as my wife looked very pale-suffering from a simple case of "Turista" on a flight from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo to Toronto.
They brought aboard a Medical Officer from the airport authority to evaluate this,and thank goodness we was "lenient" on her and allowed her to fly back home.
Take care and have a good recovery!
Niko

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
Usually post decompression surgery patients are advised to wait for 2-4 weeks before resuming air travel. However, the time to air-travel recovery may vary with individual and with the reason for surgery, and with post surgery complications. Hence, it is wise to resume air-travel only after consulting your treating doctor.
Take care!