How long do I have to wear this binder?

Hi everyone, I was wondering how long I have to wear this binder. I am 3 weeks post op. I have been wearing it the whole time other to take a shower. When I went in for my 2 week Dr visit I forgot to ask him how much longer I would have to wear it. I want to thank everyone for their help and hopefully one day I will be as much help to someone esle! Thanks Mary

Hi, Mary! My surgeon said to wear the binder for 6 weeks. It's kind of a nuisance, but for some reason, I did feel "safer" with it on. It gave my mid-section more stability. The worst is over for you, so enjoy the ride! Keep your eye on the prize and work hard!! Have a great day! Mary

I think after a few weeks, I started taking it off for an hour or so to let the incision breath, but only while I was just sitting and doing nothing. I stopped wearing it during the day at 3 weeks out, since that is when I returned to work, but I have a desk job and was very careful. I still wore it to sleep at night though for probably at least 6 weeks. I felt much safer in it, to be able to turn over at night, etc. It took me a good 2 months before I could even try to lay on my stomach, with or without the binder. And, I'm a stomach sleeper, so it was hard there for awhile. Even now, I am still cautious when I do anything that might put stress on my mid-section. My surgeon told me I didn't have to wear it anymore after 3 weeks, but I would recommend wearing it as long as you can stand it, especially if you are walking or doing any minimal exercise, bending over, or housecleaning even. Better safe than sorry....it will help support you and prevent hernias. Good Luck! Sounds like you are well on your way.... ~Kim Open VBG 9/1/04 292 then/ 245 now