Since my hip replacement 18 months ago one of the new adventures that I get to look forward to is going through airports. When I started to travel the novelty was new so I didn’t know what to expect. Now that the novelty has worn off I have discovered I have all sorts of new “close” friends. In fact I am exchanging addresses so we can all be on each others Christmas card lists.
The TSA personnel are obligated to pat someone down who sets off the metal detector. Hmmm I wonder if I will do that with my titanium hip? The first few times this happened I was pulled over the side and the gentle but firm patting began. It goes something like this…”Nice to meet you! Do you have anything in your pants? Do you have any other bags…er…ooops I mean do you have a package…ooops…er…let me take your belt buckle off and I have to gently touch your thigh…” At this point we are both starting to sweat! LOL! After a brief exchange of phone numbers I am good to go!!! LOL!
Of course I exaggerate somewhat, however once I realized that I would be going through this every time I decided to ask for the imaging technology machine or what I refer to as the full body scanner instead of going through the metal detector. It is important to know your rights when going through security. Sometimes the TSA agents are not properly trained in this area and will ask you to still go through the metal detector. You only need to be scanned once so it is up to you which way is better for you.
I have attached a link…
https://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/metal-implants
…for anyone wanting to know more information when travelling. In countries other than the US you may not be able to get an ID card as is suggested on the web site I have referred.
Remember…Make sure you have clean underwear just like our mothers warned us because you never know the next time you might get “close”!
Have a great week!
John-one hip guy