How soon can you fly after laser eye surgery?
Laser eye surgery is a life-changing procedure that offers clear vision and freedom from glasses or contact lenses. One common question from patients is, “How soon can I fly after laser eye surgery?” It’s a crucial consideration, especially for those who travel frequently or have upcoming trips.
Let’s explore the factors that influence post-surgery travel and provide guidelines to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
Understanding Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery, including LASIK, PRK, and SMILE, reshapes the cornea to correct vision problems such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The procedure is quick, typically taking less than 30 minutes, and recovery time is relatively short. Most patients experience improved vision within a day or two, but complete healing can take several weeks.
Immediate Post-Surgery Period
After laser eye surgery, your eyes need time to heal. The first 24 to 48 hours are critical. During this period, you should avoid any activities that could strain your eyes or expose them to potential contaminants. This includes avoiding screen time, not rubbing your eyes, and staying away from dusty or smoky environments.
Flying After Laser Eye Surgery
Flying after laser eye surgery is generally safe, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Here are the key factors that influence when you can fly:
Type of Surgery:
- LASIK: Most LASIK patients can fly within 24 to 48 hours post-surgery. However, it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s advice and attend a follow-up appointment before travelling.
- PRK: PRK has a longer recovery time compared to LASIK. Patients are usually advised to wait at least one week before flying.
- SMILE: Similar to LASIK, most SMILE patients can fly within a couple of days after the procedure, but a follow-up check is recommended.
Healing Process:
- Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure you attend your scheduled follow-up appointments. Your surgeon will monitor your healing process and provide personalised advice on when it’s safe to fly.
- Dry Eyes: Airplane cabins have low humidity, which can exacerbate dry eyes—a common side effect after laser eye surgery. Use lubricating eye drops as prescribed to keep your eyes moist during the flight.
Protecting Your Eyes:
- Avoid Infection: Airports and aeroplanes are crowded spaces with a higher risk of exposure to infections. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes.
- Comfort: Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from bright lights and potential irritants during your journey.
Tips for a Comfortable Flight
If you have been cleared to fly by your surgeon, here are some tips to ensure a comfortable flight:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during the flight to stay hydrated and help maintain moisture in your eyes.
- Use Eye Drops: Carry lubricating eye drops in your hand luggage and use them regularly to combat dryness caused by the cabin air.
- Wear Sunglasses: Sunglasses can protect your eyes from bright cabin lights and reduce glare, making your journey more comfortable.
- Avoid Strain: Minimise screen time on your phone, tablet, or laptop to reduce eye strain. Consider bringing an eye mask for rest.
Post-Flight Care
After your flight, continue following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure your eyes are healing correctly. If you experience any discomfort or unusual symptoms, contact your eye care provider immediately.
Why It’s Important to Follow Guidelines
Following your surgeon’s guidelines for post-surgery care and travel is crucial for a successful recovery. Rushing into activities, including flying, can jeopardise your healing process and overall results. Taking the time to heal properly ensures you achieve the best possible outcome from your laser eye surgery.
Flying after laser eye surgery is generally safe if you follow the appropriate guidelines and your surgeon’s advice. For LASIK and SMILE patients, a short wait of 24 to 48 hours is usually sufficient, while PRK patients should wait at least a week. Always attend your follow-up appointments and take necessary precautions to protect your eyes during travel.
Take the Self-Test Now
Considering laser eye surgery? Take the self-test now to find out if you’re a suitable candidate. Achieve the freedom of clear vision and enjoy your travels without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses.
Find out if you are suitable for laser eye surgery
Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.
Find out if you could benefit from this life changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
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Hi, I’m Daemon McClunan
I’m proud to be the founder of both the Atlantic Eye Centre, a leading eye specialist centre; and LIQID Medical Pty, an award-winning biotech company. My passion for research and innovation has led me to create four patented devices, and earn various prestigious awards during my specialist training.
With a medical degree from Stellenbosch University, a specialist degree from the University of Cape Town, and experience working in renowned Laser Eye Surgery centres in Canada, Germany, India and London, I’m dedicated to providing top-tier care.
Beyond the clinic, I’ve embarked on humanitarian missions, travelling over 15,000km by motorbike to provide rural eye screenings. In my downtime, I love mountain biking, diving, and spending quality time with my family.
My goal is to provide a world-class service which ensures every patient leaves my practice feeling happier than when they first walked in.
Dr Daemon McClunan
MBChB(SU), DipOphth(SA), MMed(UCT), FcOphth(SA)
Hi, I’m James Beatty
I pride myself on providing exceptional eye care with state-of-the-art equipment and a team dedicated to excellence. With a focus on refractive surgery, I bring years of experience and expertise to each patient’s journey towards clearer vision.
As an active member of esteemed Ophthalmologist societies including the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa and the South African Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, I stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field.
Additionally, my affiliation with the Health Professions Council of South Africa and the South African Glaucoma Society underscores my commitment to upholding the highest standards of care.
With a passion for laser surgery, I strive to deliver optimal outcomes for every patient.
Dr James Beatty
MB ChB (UCT) FCS (SA) Ophth MMed (Stel) Ophth
