I had a similar experience last year when I flew back after surgery. I was a bit worried about the long flight, but I opted for a First Class seat, which made a huge difference. It’s not about luxury, but the extra space and ability to adjust the seat really helped with comfort. I think staying in San Diego for a few extra days is a good idea—around 5 days sounds reasonable to me, as it gives you more time to heal before the flight. Affordable First Class Travel options are out there too, so you don’t necessarily have to break the bank for a more comfortable trip! The key is taking it easy and making sure you’re not overdoing it.