Can You Fly on a Plane After Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a routine procedure that significantly improves vision by replacing the eye’s cloudy natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). While the surgery has a relatively quick recovery time, many patients wonder if they can fly on a plane shortly after the procedure. In this blog, we’ll discuss the risks of flying post-surgery, the recommended waiting period, and essential tips for air travel after cataract surgery.
Potential Risks of Flying After Cataract Surgery
Flying too soon after cataract surgery may pose some risks, including:
- Changes in Cabin Pressure – While modern aircraft cabins are pressurised, some patients may still experience mild discomfort or pressure changes in their eyes. However, this is generally not a significant concern for cataract surgery patients compared to other eye procedures.
- Increased Risk of Dry Eyes – Aeroplane cabins have low humidity, which can exacerbate post-surgery dryness and discomfort.
- Risk of Infection – Airports and aeroplanes expose travellers to higher levels of germs. Since post-operative eyes are more vulnerable to infection, extra precautions are necessary.
- Limited Access to Medical Care – If any complications arise during the early recovery period, being on a flight may make it difficult to seek immediate medical attention.
- It is important to have someone help carry any heavy luggage and we advise carrying light luggage yourself.
When Can You Safely Fly After Cataract Surgery?
There are no issues with flying after cataract surgery. However, the ideal waiting period depends on several factors:
- Follow-Up Appointments – Attending a follow-up examination ensures your surgeon can assess your healing progress.
- Use of Eye Drops – Post-surgical eye drops are essential for healing. If you need to travel, ensure you can use them as prescribed.
- Pre-existing Eye Conditions – If you have glaucoma, retinal issues, or other eye conditions, consult your doctor before booking a flight.
Tips for Flying Comfortably After Cataract Surgery
If you need to fly soon after cataract surgery, consider these precautions:
- Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water to combat dry air in the cabin.
- Use Lubricating Eye Drops – Keep artificial tears handy to relieve dryness during the flight.
- Wear Protective Eyewear – Sunglasses or protective glasses can shield your eyes from dust and bright lights.
- Follow Medication Schedule – Carry your prescribed eye drops and use them as directed, even while travelling.
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes – Even if your eyes feel irritated, avoid touching or rubbing them to prevent complications.
Final Thoughts: Is It Safe to Fly After Cataract Surgery?
For most patients, flying after cataract surgery is safe if they follow proper precautions. However, it’s always best to check with your surgeon before making travel plans. Prioritising recovery will help ensure the best visual outcome.
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“Had cataract surgery on both eyes simultaneously last week and, 7 days later, the vision is brilliant. I can see to read as well, including small print smaller than I expected! I can see car number plates at the end of the road. Everything was excellent, and I could not have wished for anything better.”
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“My cataract surgery was a great experience. My vision is now brighter; overall, I felt informed and secure throughout, and I am glad I did it and definitely recommend Sharmina Khan. Everyone at the hospital was great, very professional, friendly, and treated me very nicely. During the surgery, I didn’t feel any pain at any time. The recovery was very easy and smooth.”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I was very nervous about having cataract surgery, as I have other medical conditions in both eyes. Ms. Khan allayed all of my fears and explained everything in detail to me. Now that both surgeries are completed, I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. I’m seeing things I’ve not been able to see properly in years. Amazing!”
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“Ms. Sharmina Khan is an outstanding eye consultant. She took the time to listen attentively to my concerns and provided thoughtful, easy-to-understand explanations. Her depth of knowledge and ability to address my questions left me thoroughly satisfied with her services. I highly recommend Ms. Sharmina Khan to anyone seeking expert eye care and guidance.”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I had cataract surgery in both eyes. The procedure was painless, easy to understand, and swift. My anxiety levels were very low, and recovery was quick and easy. I was just so relaxed. My vision was like being Wonder Woman. It was so clear, and it was like someone had cleaned a window. Now, my vision is fine for reading, computer use, and using a sewing machine.”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Extremely happy with vision following cataract surgery. I wish I had it done sooner. The colors I am experiencing, I didn’t know existed. The experience was really good; it wasn’t much painful. I really enjoyed the sandwiches afterward. When I got home, I saw every little mark on the walls and now am cleaning up!”
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“6/5. Incredibly impressed with Miss Khan’s bedside manner and operation and consultation. I have had the Synergy toric lens and have experienced a dramatic increase in distance vision. Now, I am able to read stuff on the television perfectly, and reading small print, I can now read the back of a tin of beans!”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Miss Khan was very professional, and both my eyes had trifocal intra-ocular lens implants (toric in the left). The risks and benefits were explained to my satisfaction, and I was very nervous. However, the procedure and the recovery were painless. I now have perfect unaided vision in both eyes and would recommend Miss Khan, 10 out of 10.”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I’m so pleased I sought Sharmina Khan’s help. My dry eye problem was debilitating. I turned up to my appointment in a very worried state and left reassured. My eyes are now vastly better. I feel in good hands. Thank you!”
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“I have had Lipiflow a few times now, and I couldn’t do without it because it really gets rid of my gritty and sore eyes for months at a time. Lipiflow has helped me go back to doing normal things without getting frustrated, like driving, tolerating air conditioning, generally tolerating different humidity levels, and not feeling like I need to use eye drops all the time. I would highly recommend it.”
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Sharmina Khan
MBBS(Lond) MSc FHEA FRCOphth DipCRS CertLRS, Consultant Eye Surgeon
Hi, I’m Sharmina Khan
I am a specialist Cataract & Lens Consultant Surgeon based in London at Moorfields Private Eye Hospital.
I have carried out over 7000+ cataract/lens procedures in the last 10 years across both my private and NHS practices.
In my private clinic I offer my clients bespoke Premium Cataract Care Pathways. There are options so that you can achieve your dreams of better vision and more, according to your lifestyle needs.
