Questions r.e. travel to NY for surgery

[Merkley5]

Hi I am a 46 y.o. female scheduled for hip resurfacing on Jan. 27th with Dr. Su.  I wanted to ask those who traveled for surgery what transportation did you get from the hospital to the hotel?  Is it best to schedule a car service? Also what did you do from the hotel back to the airport - a car service vs. shuttle?  Any information would be helpful as I am not very comfortable in large cities...it is somewhat overwhelming.  Also for those who must stay in a hotel prior to flying home, what did you do for an elevated commode seat?
Thanks,
Debbie

[jackmac32]

Hi,
If you go to Edwinsu.com there are FAQ sections in the website that show travel and hotel information.  I would have done well traveling in a van with padded walls on the way there, but looking back there was nothing to be nervous about!  You'll do great!
Jack.

[littleb]

Though I live on Long Island I had a very early surgical time so I stayed at the night prior at the hotel at the hospital. In the morning I just walked across the street. If you fly in to JFK you can take the shuttle to Jamaica Station -Train to the plane (about 10 min) where you can catch the train to Penn Station (about 15 minutes) From their take a cab to HSS (about $15).

You can stay at the hospital hotel till you are ready to go home, easy access to PT and wonderful museums to practice walking nearby. All your needs like elevated toilet seat, crutches, teds are given to you to take home.

On the way back I would take car service to JFK, be sure to let them know you are a surgical patient and request a wheelchair. I understand that gets you through the lines must faster and easier at the airport. Make that arrangement when you get your tickets.

[andybc]

I'd agree absolutely about staying in hospital till you feel ready to leave. I know many people are out in 3 days. I was in 5 which I thought was just right for me, especially as I had to fly home and the weather was terrible.
Actually, I was advised to maybe avoid a wheelchair at the airport as they are usually very low. I used two crutches to get about. That gave you a bit of prioritiy getting through the lines and made people aware you were a bit vulnerable. That worked really well for me and I reverted to a cane as soon as I got home.
Be prepared for the body search though! I described mine in the post op posting under "things I didn't expect in the post op period"!
Oh, and as regards car transport, a large saloon car is best. In London, for any Brits reading this, black taxis need to be avoided as do "people carriers" because of the ergonomics of getting in and out of them. My journey home was a 60 minute drive through snow to the airport , a 45 minute flight then short drive home. It was no hassle at all. The champagne in the Club Lounge probably helped.
Very best of luck to you.
Andy