Flying Following Breast Augmentation. How Safe is it? An Evidence-Based Report of 20 Years of Experience

Breast augmentation (BA) is one of the most frequently performed aesthetic procedures worldwide. Patients often travel internationally for surgery, introducing unique challenges in postoperative recovery and the safety of early air travel. This study aims to evaluate the safety and outcomes of air travel within 48 hours following primary BA, using retrospective data from a 20-year cohort.

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 618 patients who underwent primary BA in Greece and the UK between 2003 and 2023 and travelled by air within 48 hours post-operatively. A specific 33-step BA protocol is described. Surgical data, travel parameters, post-operative pain, nausea and vomiting (PONV), complications, discharge times, and satisfaction scores using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) were recorded.

Postoperative complications were not significant. No haematomas, thrombotic events, or implant infections were observed. Pain and PONV were mild and improved by Day 5. Satisfaction was high, with 95.8% reporting excellent improvement. Early discharge and shorter travel intervals did not negatively impact outcomes.

Early postoperative air travel within 48 hours following BA appears to be safe in well-selected patients when using a standardised protocol without increased complication risks.

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