lab tests?

It has been 4 months since my surgery and my doctor has never sent me for lab tests. I have read that so many of you have lab work done. I have an appointment with him in a little over a week, and I want to request that blood levels be done. What lab tests are usually done? And how often? Thanks! Elizabeth

I had my 3 month labs done about week before my checkup. I would call his office and ask them if you should have gotten a slip for labs. I have to have labs done 3, 6, 9, 12 months and then every year after that. Good Luck! Margaret

my dr. only tests at 6 months out he said that most of the time nothing will show up until that point anyways.

I would definately get labs done. You want them to check your protein level, your potassium, and B12 for sure. I have had labs at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 mos. I also have to have them at 6 mos, 12 mos, 18 mos, then every year. My 3 month labs came back and showed that my body is not absorbing protein as it should even though I get in the recommended amount. The Dr increased the amount of protein I had to take in every day and I have to check back in a month to make sure this is working. I usually go to my primary care physician two weeks before my surgeon each time and have the bloodwork done. The surgeon's office provides a sheet with guidelines for the PC Dr. Good luck. Mary