Air travel and driving after skin surgery: an international survey of dermatologists and plastic surgeons in the USA and UK.

[BACKGROUND] Dermatologists frequently receive questions from patients regarding the safety of driving and flying after skin surgery. However, there remain no definitive guidelines, leading to varied advice between centres.

[OBJECTIVES] To evaluate and standardize advice provided by dermatology and plastic surgeons in the USA and UK.

[METHODS] An online survey was distributed to members of the American Society for Mohs Surgery, the British Society for Dermatological Surgery and the skin special advisory group of the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, assessing postoperative instructions on air travel and driving restrictions.

[RESULTS] In total, 125 responses were analysed, including 96 dermatologists and 24 plastic surgeons, with 77 performing Mohs surgery. Recommendations varied by procedure type and anatomical location. The majority advised no flying restrictions after punch or incisional biopsy and primary excision. Respondents advised longer delays for excisions requiring flaps or grafts. Driving advice varied by procedure but generally recommended no restrictions, although many advised waiting 24-48 h after excisions near the eyes.

[CONCLUSIONS] Our international survey reveals a general consensus on resuming driving and airline travel after different procedures, and provides preliminary data to inform future guidelines to help provide dermatologists with uniform postoperative advice.