Recovery after lap band

I was just wondering how long it took you to get back to "normal" after your lap band surgery. I heard that you could go in on a Friday and be back to work by Monday, but that seems like too short a time for recovery.

Hi Julie, I went home from the hospital the day after surgery but I did not go back to work for a couple of weeks. I actually worked from home the second week so it was actually one week off. Now that I think about it, I only went into the office for half a day the third week, I was much to tired to stay the entilre day. Everyone will give you a different answer because we all heal so differently. I guess if you can survive on clear liquids and feel good, then you could go back to work the following Monday. I was pretty weak, not in any pain, but then had a bout with diahrrea (sp?), which I guess is pretty normal, while I was on the liquid diet. I think it is really important that you give your body time to heal. I basically walked, sipped and slept for the first week, I just needed to relax and heal. It is up to the individual and I would check with your doctor. I would also post this question on the Lap Band board and see what replies you get. There is obviously a lot more opinions on your question over there! Good luck on your journey! Nancy K

What Nancy said is so true - everyone is so different. I think if you're in good shape before the surgery your recovery time can be greatly reduced. I took 2 weeks off from work - I probably only needed one but was glad to have the 2nd one just to relax. Some people can get back to work after a couple days - I wouldn't count on it, if you can just incase. I would say at a very minimum a week off - but optimally two - but that's just me! Best of luck to you! Tammy