When can I fly after tube shunt surgery?

The American Academy of Ophthalmology says common glaucoma procedures such as laser trabeculoplasty, peripheral iridotomy, glaucoma shunt implantation, and other pressure lowering surgeries are not typically affected by cabin pressure changes, and that many patients can fly as early as the day after surgery. The serious flying restriction applies to eyes with a gas bubble after retinal or some corneal surgery, which is a different situation.

The practical limit is your follow up schedule. The American Academy of Ophthalmology says you will need follow up a few times in the weeks after a drainage implant, and advises staying close to home for the period your doctor recommends. If you have a non valved device, BrightFocus Foundation says the tube opens approximately 4 to 6 weeks after surgery when the sutures dissolve or are removed, so you want to be near your surgeon around then.

For the flight itself, the American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that keeping the eye clean and keeping the surgical wound from drying out in cabin air are the concerns for surgery on the outside of the eye. Pack your drops in your carry on and clean your hands before touching your eye.