first visit post op

I moved to ct on 8/21/06. Most people say recovery time is three weeks. How soon does one usually wait before first visit post-op? i have a wonderful friend who i am sure will be very helpful. My family wants me to come to their home to recover. i just wonder should i take the chance. Of course i will talk to dr e on wednesday but i just waited others thoughts. My family is in Durham, NC five miles from Duke. I am sure i could get medical attention if needed.

Hi Joann. Well all I can do is talk about my own experence. I had Gastric Bypass Lap and drove myself to the doctors office the week after surgery for my first post op. I tend to heal pretty quickly, (I had my tummy tuck last thrusday) Hobbling around just fine. Best of luck on your Journey. Take Care,

Joann, Where will you be having the surgery? If you are planning on having it in CT, I don't think traveling down to NC post op would be approved by your doctor. Have you attended any seminars yet? If not, I would ask plenty of questions there or at your consultation. Good luck! Tina

Good morning Ms. Z- Personally after my by-pass I couldn't be in the car for more than a few minutes- sitting up in the car and using the seatbelt caused complete discomfort as well a****ting any bumps in the road. You know I'll do as much as I can to help you out Check with Dr. E- he'll be able to give you more advice on the post-op follow-up and recovery.

Joann, Please clear up for us... When are you having the surgery? Where? Do you plan on traveling after surgery to NC? Flying or driving? Who is your surgeon? Are you having it done lap or open? I had my surgery and had to ride for 1 hr in the car to get home. It was with 3 dilaudid pain killers, that is. I had open surgery, so, it was pretty painful and discomforting. I had no restrictions by Dr Aranow upon leaving the hospital, but I still had to take it easy. Dr Aranow has you come back for your first post op appt at two weeks out. Then two weeks after that. I think every surgeon may be different. I felt up to "par" at about 4 weeks, but not totally myself until week 8. I did everything at week 4, but was dragging a bit. I'm not so sure you're gonna want to drive or fly from CT to NC right aftre surgery, or think it's wise. You would have, afterall, just had major surgery and have fresh wounds healing inside of you...and outside, too. Can someone come up here to help you? What town do you live in? I think I could have taken care of myself. The first three days are a blur to me...Hubby was here and off work for 2 weeks to help, but he mainly took care of the house and kids for me. I just made my own shakes and meals and showered, etc. It's up to you, but check with your surgeon as to clearances, etc. Paula