It has been a while since I last flew on a plane. The last time, I weighed probably 50 pounds less and was able to stuff myself into the seat, but it was definitely uncomfortable. My hips are now 59" and the average coach seat is only 17" wide. Have any of you similarly-sized people flown recently? It would be especially helpful to hear from people who flew soon after surgery. What was it like for you? Do aisle seats help? Anything else? Thank you!

I have not had surgery, but I did fly in January and we have similar measurements. I flew Delta, same size seats, a total of 5 flights. What I found was I was far more comfortable by the window because I could lean into the window area and didn't have to worry about people walking down the middle. I was able to put the arm rests down, but didn't, I was also sitting next to a close friend so we "cuddled" I was Impressed by the flight attendants, I never felt uncomfortable asking for seat belt extenders and they always handed them to me in a way that didn't draw attention. I had 3 short flights and 2 long (6hrs each) and made sure once I was settled I would only have to get out once, in the middle to pee. I never put my tray down, utilized my friends. I did do the aisle Once and hated it.

Well, that makes me feel a little better. Thank you!