Can you fly after a total knee replacement?


Can you fly after a total knee replacement? Before flying, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) recommends waiting 1 to 2 days after keyhole surgery and 2 to 6 weeks after total knee replacement surgery, which involves an artificial knee joint with metal alloy caps.


Why is flying not recommended after surgery?

After surgery, patients are at an increased risk of blood clots, which is further exacerbated by the act of flying on a commercial flight. According to the HSS Education Institute, there is a general risk of blood clots occurring for up to four to six weeks after surgery.