Question on going back to work...

I had my surgery monday may 22nd @ 11am and was out wed 24th @ 11am. I could have went back to work thursday since I sit at a desk but I took the whole week off (I felt normal). I was ready and pumped to go back to work the following monday but my mom being a mother and all made me take another week off. Believe me when they tell you that the little breathing apparatis and walking works wonders!!! Another lady in the same room as me didnt do her beathing or walking and was having a horrible time. By tuesday I walked around the hospital for 2 hours. The breathing is wierd but it REALLY helps make you better. I was even practicing before my surgery and as soon as I got out I was working on it every couple of minutes. Call the nurse to get you unplugged as often as possible to walk around or have a friend or family member do laps with you around the hospital. Have them push the ivy thing around while you walk. I am now walking 3 miles a day and it REALLY helps the process not to mention I feel so much more happy. I get off work and go straight to walking before I get home. If your family is like mine and wants to take care of you and get your water for you and everything make sure you tell them NO! The more you do on your own the faster your healing process be. This is the EASIEST thing I have had to do for myself. I have been out for 4 weeks and have lost 32 lbs. Its the little things that make this a easy recovery. -Christine

I took the full 4 weeks the doctor advised. I'm glad b/c I go back on Monday and I needed the time off. I get very tired in the afternoon, but I can get through a day without a nap. You need this time to figure out what to eat, how your body will react to food and to recover. I think the first month or so it's more about letting your body heal then losing a lot of weight. You'll know when your comfortable. Also, if you have a desk job, like I do, it's easier to go back sooner. Good luck and congrats!!

I had my surgery on May 4, and was back to work on May 12. I could have gone back on the 11th, except I had to wait for a new microwave to be delivered and installed at home! I needed to go back to work as soon as possible because I only had three sick days and a week of vacation I could use. My doctor told me I could go back to work when I felt I was up to it. I think I was able to go back to work so soon in part because my surgery (lap RNY) went so well--I got sent home from the hospital a day early. I also have a very non-physical job (I sit in front of a computer all day) and my husband and I work in the same office, so he could do the driving. The problems I had were that I got a little woozy from time to time because I was having a hard time drinking enough water, and I think I was dehydrated. Also, it takes awhile ot get used to the new eating schedule. It seems you have to be eating/drinking/taking vitamins every minute. I was alos tired in the evenings. If you want to be able to get back to work sooner, do your best to get up and walk after your surgery, and do all the breathing exercises they ask you to do. Good luck!