Can You Travel for Breast Implant Exchange Surgery?
Yes! Traveling for breast implant surgery can be a really safe and straightforward option. Traveling for surgery is getting so common that some plastic surgery practices offer virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, and additional resources to help plan your travel.
Be sure to ask your patient care coordinator about their travel protocols, recommendations, and how they support travel patients.
How long do I have to stay in town after my breast implant exchange?
The amount of time you’ll need to stay in town will depend on your surgeon’s protocol and your unique circumstances. However, because breast implant exchange recovery tends to be shorter than a primary augmentation, it’s not uncommon for patients to be cleared to travel home in 2-3 days after surgery.
How do I choose a surgeon for my breast implant exchange as a travel patient?
Finding the right surgeon for your travel surgery is one of the most important steps in the process. When choosing your surgeon as a breast implant exchange travel patient, we recommend you look for:
- Specialized Experience: Ask if they frequently perform breast implant exchanges. It’s important to ask your surgeon if they are board-certified or board-eligible by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Not all certifications and boards are the same. The ABPS is the most rigorous board, holding its members to the highest standards, and is likely your best bet in finding a surgeon who’s skilled and safe.
- Breast Implant Exchange Before and After Photos: Look through the surgeon’s implant exchange before and after photos to make sure your goals align with their work.
- A Good Fit, Personally: Beyond credentials, you should feel comfortable and supported by your surgeon and their staff.
Before flying for breast implant surgery, schedule virtual consultations and ask plenty of questions. A trustworthy surgeon and their staff will take the time to make sure you feel confident about your decision.
How to Plan Your Trip for a Breast Implant Exchange
Before you book your flight, you may want to check on a few more items that can change your itinerary. Get answers to these questions before locking in a schedule. Your surgeon, or the Bustmob community, is a great place to get more details. We recommend confirming:
- How long you’ll need to stay: Many surgeons recommend staying in town at least a week post-op to attend your follow-up appointment.
- Where to stay: Ask your patient care coordinator if they recommend nearby recovery-friendly hotels or accommodations.
- Getting around: Plan transportation in advance since driving right after surgery may not be an option.
- What to Bring: Get tips from the Bustmob community on what they packed for their travel surgery, bags they loved for staying organized, and the stuff they packed but wish they hadn’t.
Having a clear travel plan takes stress off your plate so you can focus fully on recovery.
Can you fly after breast implant exchange surgery?
Contrary to some myths, yes, you can fly safely after breast surgery. However, timing matters. Your surgeon will have guidelines around when it is safe to board a plane after your surgery, so make sure you ask before scheduling your flights.
To further minimize the risk of complications like blood clots or excessive swelling, you should:
- Avoid lifting heavy luggage.
- Stay hydrated and move your legs on long flights.
- Know the signs of complications and when to reach out for help.
Even if you’re miles away, your surgeon and patient care team should remain a call or message away. Don’t be shy about asking how to stay connected after you return home.
Emotional Support While Traveling for Plastic Surgery
Traveling for surgery can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. The Bustmob community connects you with women who have traveled for their breast augmentation or implant exchange.
Reading their stories, asking questions, and leaning on their advice can make the process feel a lot less intimidating.
Many women in Bustmob have shared their experiences traveling for surgery. Some flew across the country to see the surgeon they trusted most, while others made a mini getaway out of it with a friend or family member for support.
Their stories prove that with the right planning, traveling for a breast implant exchange is not only possible but often worth it to get the right surgeon for you.