Visit preparation
Can I fly with a gas bubble after retinal detachment surgery?
If gas remains in your eye after retinal detachment surgery, do not fly. Ask your eye surgeon to confirm that the gas has gone and assess whether you can travel.
What should I check on the discharge summary?
Look in the operation note or discharge summary for “intraocular tamponade,” “gas” or “silicone oil.” The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University lists air, inert gases and silicone oil among the materials used to replace the vitreous. The word “vitrectomy” alone does not tell you which was used. If the record is unclear, check with the ophthalmology team that performed the operation. [1]
How do gas and silicone oil differ?
As cabin pressure falls, a gas bubble in the eye can expand and raise eye pressure. Even if your vision feels better, you must not fly until the gas has completely disappeared. [2]
| Material in your operation note | What it means for flying | What to ask at follow-up |
|---|---|---|
| Air or inert gas | Do not fly while any gas remains in the eye | Has all the gas gone? When should I come back for a check? |
| Silicone oil | Silicone oil does not have the same gas-expansion restriction. Your eye still needs to be assessed before flying | Are my retina and eye pressure stable? When might I need a check-up or oil removal? |
What should I get before travelling home?
In China, contact the eye team that operated on you or the clinician they arranged for follow-up. Bring your discharge summary and tell the clinician your flight date. Ask them to record what was placed in the eye, whether any gas remains and when your next check is due. Give that record and your operation notes to the eye specialist who takes over your care after you travel. [1][2]
Frequently asked questions
What if I suddenly need another operation while there is gas in my eye?
Tell the emergency and anaesthesia teams straight away that there is gas in your eye. Nitrous oxide can make the bubble expand. The team will assess which anaesthetic to use. [3]
Need help?
Tell us about your situation and needs. Incomplete records are welcome.