Wondering if your eye condition or recent surgery affects your ability to fly? The American Academy of Ophthalmology often gets asked whether it’s safe to travel by air after eye surgery or with specific eye conditions. While you should always consult your own ophthalmologist, here’s a guide to help you understand when air travel could pose a risk to your eyes.
1. Retina Repair Surgery
If you've had retina repair surgery, flying can be dangerous due to the gas bubble often used to hold the retina in place. Air travel or any significant pressure changes (like scuba diving) can cause this gas bubble to expand, leading to severe damage or even blindness. Stay at your surgery’s altitude until your doctor confirms the gas bubble is gone. If silicone oil was used instead of gas, flying is generally safe.
2. Cataract Surgery
For most people, flying after standard cataract surgery poses no issues. Once your doctor gives you the green light for normal activities, you’re clear to fly. However, if your cataract surgery involved air or gas in the eye, consult your doctor before flying.
3. Glaucoma Surgery
Whether you've had a laser trabeculoplasty or a more invasive procedure, pressure changes from flying are usually not a concern. You should be able to fly shortly after glaucoma surgery, but always check with your doctor for specific guidance.
4. Corneal Transplant
If air or gas bubbles were used during your corneal transplant, flying can be risky. Speak with your ophthalmologist before making travel plans.
5. Retinal Tear Surgery
Flying after laser surgery for a retinal tear is safe. However, if the procedure involved gas or air to repair a retinal detachment, you’ll need to avoid air travel until your doctor says it’s safe.
6. Other Eye Surgeries
For surgeries on the outer part of the eye, such as pterygium removal or eyelid surgery, flying is generally safe. Just ensure you keep your eye clean, attend follow-up appointments, and use proper lubrication during the flight to prevent dryness.
1. Retinal Holes or Wrinkles
Flying with retinal holes or wrinkles won’t worsen your condition. However, these can sometimes lead to a retinal detachment, so it’s wise to consult your doctor, especially before long trips.
2. Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)
Flying with PVD (when the gel inside the eye pulls away from the retina) is safe, but PVD can sometimes lead to retinal detachment. Be sure to speak with your doctor and be aware of any symptoms that may require emergency care.
3. Keratitis
There’s no danger in flying with keratitis, though the dry air in planes may worsen symptoms. Keep your eyes lubricated with drops to avoid discomfort during your flight.
4. Flashes and Floaters
You can fly with flashes and floaters, but these could be signs of a more serious retina issue, such as a detachment. If you notice a sudden increase, see an ophthalmologist before your flight.
In summary, while many eye surgeries and conditions won’t interfere with air travel, certain procedures, particularly those involving gas bubbles, require careful consideration. Always speak with your ophthalmologist to get personalized advice for your situation.
