Discussing your travel plans with your eye doctor is always a good idea, especially if you have been diagnosed with a specific eye condition or about to undergo an eye procedure. Certain activities may have to be avoided as you receive treatment or recover, including flying on a plane.
You are not restricted from air travel after surgeries done on the outer part of your eye. These include pterygium surgery or the removal of a benign, fleshy growth from the eye and eyebrow-lifting surgery. However, you still have to ensure a full recovery. If you are going to fly right after surgery, you must keep your eye clean and prevent the wound from drying out in-flight. Consider scheduling your upcoming flight another time so you can recover from the surgery and protect your eyesight.
Unless your optometrist has given you the go-ahead to perform your usual activities, air travel is restricted following a retinal repair surgery. In this procedure, the torn or detached retina is repaired before injecting a gas bubble to hold it in place and ensure full healing. Flying involves major air pressure changes, causing the bubble to expand and cause serious damage to your vision. You have to remain at about the altitude of your surgery until your doctor confirms that the gas bubble is gone.
Some corneal transplant procedures involve placing an air or gas bubble in the eye. Similar to the procedure mentioned above, you might have to skip your flight following the transplant and reschedule it for another time. Talk to your doctor about your planned air travel if you’ve had this procedure done recently.
For your vision correction and eye care needs, consult Joel H McGahen OD, your local low-vision specialist. We offer a wide range of services, including comprehensive eye exams and prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses. Call us at (717) 264-4012 or fill out our contact form to make an appointment. We serve residents of Chambersburg, PA, and the surrounding communities.
