Flying for the first time for this surgery.. TIPS

[Pistol_Annie 4]

As I'm having my surgery in July, this will be my first time flying. We are flying from Texas to San Diego and then back after surgery. I'm a little worried that 1 day post-surgery flying will make me sick and nauseous, as the thought of flying already makes me nervous. What are some good tips for first-time flying to calm nerves?

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[B.Annie 290]

Do Not over pack. One bag should be fine - carry on size preferred so you don't have to fuss with baggage claim or walking around larger airports with a bunch of stuff.

Call the airline beforehand to ask how wide their seats are (usually 17-19 inches wide) and how long their belts are. You might need to buy a 2nd seat or request a belt extension.

Bring chewing gum (at minimum for on the way there) to help pop your ears when you're reaching altitude.

Bring a soft pillow to hold in your lap on the plane. Turbulence won't feel good after surgery.

Don't wear pants if you can help it. Just a dress. You don't need the band digging in.

Bring earphones and music or earplugs. If you don't hear the noises as it's preparing for takeoff, it will help your nerves.

Ask your surgeon for an extra dose of nausea meds for the trip home.

Use your incentive spirometer on the plane during the process. It will help focus your breathing and calm your nerves.

Smile and be nice. When you're a doll, they'll all usually be much more accommodating for anything you might need.

HW: 328 (02/21/17)

SW: 271 (05/24/17)

CW: 262

[Berry78 4,259]

Southwest has the best policies for big folk. They don't assign seats, your ticket has a # on it, and that # indicates boarding order. You want to board as soon as possible (purchase the upgraded boarding preference at the gate if your ticket says "B" or "C". You want "A"). This way you can be sure to get an aisle seat. If you board late, you will be stuck with a middle seat, and might not fit. (I was 300lbs, and 250 now, and still wouldn't fit in a middle seat). While at the gate, it's helpful to ask if the flight is sold out, because if you're as big as me, even an aisle seat wouldn't have worked if someone else was sitting in the middle seat. Fortunately both my flights had extra seats, so the middle seat was empty both times.

Compression stockings: flying increases the risk of developing blood clots, so medical grade graduated compression stockings (knee hi) are a good idea. I had mine fitted at a medical supply place a couple weeks before the flight. The stockings are a bit pricey, and very tight (but not uncomfortable to wear), but it's worth it for peace of mind. My brother died of a blood clot from flying, so I'm extra sensitive to the possibility, particularly after surgery. The stockings are not TED stockings, they are different.

I second the single carry-on. Wheels made it possible for me to pull it post-op. If you are planning on souvenir shopping, leave some space.

Go to the airport with cash for drinks and such. You aren't allowed to bring liquids on board, but they do offer drinks in-flight.

Airport security is a PITA, arrive at the airport 2 hours before your flight to make sure you have plenty of time to get through the security line.

Good luck!

[KateBruin 344]

Your doctor shouldn't allow you to fly for several weeks after surgery. The risk of blood clots, especially in the obese is way too high.

[Joann454 1,329]

Your doctor shouldn't allow you to fly for several weeks after surgery. The risk of blood clots, especially in the obese is way too high.

People have surgery in Mexico and fly home a few days later. I'm flying at 7 weeks and they said it would fine. You have to follow precautions if it's a long flight (get up and move).