| When is it safe to fly after retinal detachment surgery? |
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The timing depends on the type of bubble placed inside your eye. Flying while any air or gas remains can cause the bubble to expand as cabin pressure decreases, leading to a dangerous rise in eye pressure and potentially severe vision loss. Air is often absorbed in about 10 days, whereas a gas bubble may remain for approximately three weeks to two months, depending on the type. At First Samsung Eye Clinic, Dr. Sung-Jin Na uses air tamponade when clinically appropriate to support an earlier return to daily activities. However, you must not fly or travel to high altitudes until your surgeon confirms that the bubble has completely disappeared. If you need another operation or anesthesia while a bubble is present, tell the medical team beforehand. |
