Recovery Time

My RNY is scheduled for 12/4. I am 65 yrs old and still work full time. My job entails a LOT of driving and stairs. My surgeon said that I will probably need to be off work "only" 2 weeks (that's going to be a long time in my world) but it could be slightly more or less. For any RNYers that are near 65 or older, what was your recovery time experience?

Not knowing your current health status, I am guessing you'll need all of those 2 weeks and dare suggest padding it for more. I was in my early 50's and needed closer to 4-6 weeks to feel comfortable; tiredness was more a factor than pain.

I was 59 and off for one week, but at a desk job. It will take time to be back to 100%. The truth is that after any major surgery it is about a year before you wake up one morning and feel as good as you did before. In this case you will probably also be 100 pounds lighter. I am 67 and feel like 17.

Follow your rules and get plenty of rest during those two weeks. Driving was not a problem for me once I was off pain meds and that was about day four. It gets better every day.

I was 63. Had a pretty easy recovery and left hospital with no pain meds by my choice. I drove two days after surgery but only about ten miles each way. Next day went to my grandsons (twins) christening and family gathering. Brought yogurt and wasn't tempted by all the other food there. I took two weeks off but could have really gone back after a week if I had Dr release but he said two weeks. I spend about half day at my desk and other half on my feet doing a lot of walking a nd lots of miscellaneous things throughout four buildings. Everyone heals differently so you will need to see how you feel. Yes I was tired at end of day but would take a short nap when I got home and then do a walk at home tape, shower, dinner, relax and get a good night's sleep. Good luck with your surgery and prayers for an easy recovery.

Ps my bedroom and bathroom were upstairs and I had no problem with them. First couple days spent most time upstairs but after that was downstairs most of the time so took multiple trips up each day.

I am 66. I had one dose of pain meds post surgery because I did not know what to expect, then none. I had no pain, just tired easily, for about six weeks. Could have potentially gone back to work in two, but ran into such trouble with getting my pipes regulated, I was happy to have the six off. I wish I had done miralax, Benefiber way sooner.

I am 59. I could have been back at work in two weeks but I'm certainly glad that I didn't have to be. At that point you should be about ready to come off of your liquid diet, etc. things have seemed so much simpler once all of the dietary stages were finished. You'll do fine, I'm sure.

Thank you everyone for your response! With my job, this time of year is our slow period and I do my own scheduling. However, during my daily course of business I still need to drive to my appointments and do stairs in homes having a basement and/or more than one level. Right after surgery will I have a restriction for stairs? If so, for how long? I have someone that can take over my duties for the month of December, if needed, but financially it will be better for me if I can work. I am on 100% commission, no paid time off.

my Doctor restricted lifting ,pulling or pushing anything over 10 lbs for at least 6 wks. Steps where ok. out now with Gallbladder removal I have the same restrictions.