When can I fly after my box change?

Hi All,

I've been reading through your posts and I see this is a very supportive gathering!

Some background info on me. I'm 32 and I had my pacemaker implanted just over 8 years ago for asystole. From early childhood I used to have fainting attacks 3-4 times a year. I was misdiagnosed with epilepsy as a teenager and generally done the rounds with many cardiologists and neurologists in 2 countries (Ireland and the UK). Then a marvellous cardiologist thought she knew what the problem may be, but in order to find out for certain I had to have a reveal device implanted. Sure enough, I fainted, took a reading and there it was.. My heart slowed and stopped for approx. 28 seconds! The duration of the episode in total was about 3 minutes - but with the evidence they implanted a pacemaker. I'm delighted to say that after 8 years I've not had one attack and really the pacemaker hasn't been a hindrance at all. My question now is and I know that I probably should ask my cardiologist this, but I'm currently living in Asia and I'm only flying up to London for the box change - does anyone know how soon I can fly after the op or does anyone have any experience in this? I'm hoping that I'll be able to fly to Ireland a couple of days after it and then fly back down here a week after that. It's sounds ambitious I know, but has anyone any experience?

Appreciate any help/advice.

Many thanks, Heather

3 Comments

Flying after surgery

by bini - 2008-07-17 07:07:04

Hi Heather,
I had my Pm surgery last year and had to fly out of state to get it. 3 Day's later I was flying home with very little problems.
I would still check with your Doctor about this issue but I think you'll be able to travel shortly after.

Good Luck!
Christine

I flew after a week

by Tracey_E - 2008-07-17 07:07:49

I've had three changes now and had a flight as early as a week after. You could probably fly within a day or so. This is going to be a much easier surgery than the first one. Other than minimal soreness, I usually feel myself as soon as the anesthesia wears off. If you set off the alarms at the airport and have to get a pat down, just tell them in advance where you're sore.

Thanks!

by heatherine009 - 2008-08-10 02:08:18

Thanks Bini and TraceyE for your advice. Much appreciated. I'm due to have my pacemaker put in on the 22nd August, 4 days later I have booked a flight from London to Kuala Lumpur (12 hours)! So, I'll let you guys know how I go...

You know you're wired when...

You can take a lickin’ and keep on tickin’.

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I live an extremely normal life now and my device does NOT hinder me in any way.