Macular Hole/ Macular Degeneration

[Holryn]

Anybody know anything about these conditions with respect to flying?

My Father-in-Law is awaiting test results to detemine whether he has one of these conditions. The doctors are leaning towards a Macular Hole.

He is due to go on holiday at the end of August. I understand that air travel is to be avoided after surgery but would it be safe beforehand?

[7120]

Macular hole repair invariably involves surgery. Gas is often left in the eye folowing surgery to help seal the repaired hole. Air travel is out as the gas will expanded at cabin pressure with obvious results. Takes a good few weeks for the gas to be naturally absorbed. Following surgery patients often have to lie/sit in a face down position for a week or so further limiting their mobility.
before surgery no restriction on any form of travel.