Question:
I am a high school teacher hoping to have an Open RNY within the next few months.
After surgery, if everything goes according to plan. How soon after are people able to return to work? I have not had my pre-op with my surgeon yet and am wonder what my time off work will be. Thanks for any advice. — [Anonymous] (posted on January 28, 2001)
January 28, 2001
I am also a high school teacher. I had open BPD/DS on May 30 and returned
to school in the fall. I was concerned about quickly my body would bounce
back because I am 51 yrs. old. I chose to have the entire summer to
recuperate and I am very glad I did. When I returned in the fall, I felt
good, had gotten into the new eating habits, and had lots of energy. This
worked for me. If you have any questions, feel free to email me. Good
luck!
— Ruth M.
January 28, 2001
If time is an issue, have you considered laparascopic RNY? The post-op
recovery period and return to functional mobility is much quicker than with
any open surgery. Please feel free to write if you're interested in more
information regarding lap RNY: [email protected]
— Diana T.
January 29, 2001
I agree with Diana...considered LAP? I had my surgery on a Tues, in
hospital until Thurs, flew home,GA to WA, Sunday and back to work
Monday(sit down job). With no pain and just a little tired.
— Debora H.
January 29, 2001
Frankly, I believe the open surgery is better than laproscopic for a number
of reasons. However, even lap patients need to take the time to heal --
because their "insides" have had just as much cutting, sewing,
rerouting, and stapling as we "opens" have had. And, it is just
as important not to lift over 10 pounds or do anything like vacuuming for 6
to 8 weeks to heal properly and avoid a hernia! (VERY IMPORTANT). Some
people tend to like to brag about how quickly they returned to work, but we
don't need to try to be superwomen! This surgery is MAJOR and our bodies
undergo a great amount of stress (thus, the potential hair loss) and need
plenty of time to rest and recoop. If you can, I suggest you take off at
least 4 weeks from teaching, and could return to half days at that time if
you feel like it (you may, you may not). I believe the longer you recoop
and rest, the better you'll bounce back. Best wishes on whatever you
decide.
— Cindy H.
January 29, 2001
I also am a teacher (8th grade). I had LAP RNY on August 21, 2000 and
returned to work on September 8th. I was a bit tired but it wasnt bad at
all. I was lucky because it was the beginning of the year and the kids
were "angels". Honestly, the benefit of teaching is that you
will not have to lift anything BUT you are on your feet a lot. I totally
recommend the LAP as something to look into. I didn't push myself, napped
when I got home for the first few weeks and I feel great now. And the kids
think I am one of the kids now! Please email me if you have any other
concerns.
— Jeannet
February 23, 2003
I am a middle school teacher. I returned to work after two weeks. I had lap
surgery. Of course, I only had to teach for two weeks before winter break.
At three months post op and 54 lbs lighter, I know that I would do it
again.
— Rebecca H.
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