Understandably, many people are anxious to fly after minor or major surgery. As a rule, a person who has undergone a minor surgical procedure is able to fly once again after a twenty-four hour period has passed. Someone who has experienced major invasive surgery may need to wait for a period up to three months. Individuals who have had their joints replaced or a portion of their lung removed must wait the longest time before they can fly again. The thinking is that if you can ascend twelve steps at one time without difficulty then you are probably ready to fly. But, it's best to consult with your doctor.

What are the actual risks associated with air travel? One risk involves altitude. The air is much thinner at higher levels of altitude, and air travelers sit inside a pressurized cabin with a measurement of oxygen that is reduced. So, individuals who have trouble with respiration on land may have health difficulties at higher levels of altitude. A person who has had lung or cardiovascular surgery is at the greatest risk because their respiratory system is not strong enough to adjust to the thin air of the higher altitudes.

If you are itching to get off the ground, it is best to discuss your flight plans with your doctor. Your personal physician will be able to advise if you are at a level of fitness where flight will be safe. It's a good idea to also let the air crew know of your pre-existing health issues upon boarding the plane so that the crew may be prepared should health conditions present during flight.

Just remember recovery times vary from person to person. Make certain you have had enough time to reasonably heal rather than jeopardizing your health and flying before you are ready.