Starting the process for RNY

I am just starting the process to get the lap RNY surgery-I am feeling really good about the decision-I am just SO AFRAID that the pain will be intolerable-I was wondering if anyone could tell me how the recovery was for them. I am a nurse and work 12 hours shifts and i was wondering what the average length of time you would be off for is. Thanks-Michelle W.

I would say 4-6 weeks off if you lift alot. 2 weeks at the least.... Good luck. Hugs Chris

Hi Michelle, Tomorrow I will be two weeks post op from RNY Bypass. I am feeling pretty good, but I still have some discomfort in the incision areas. It is not that bad, but I think you would need at least 4-6 weeks with your type of job. I have a sedentary job and I will be returning next week. I could probably return tomorrow, but I wanted to give myself and extra week of R & R. The worst day for me was the day following the surgery and it has only gotten better from there. Good Luck Janet

I have yet to have surgery but I know it also depends on if your having open or laproscopic. I hope everything goes well for you!!! Keep us all updated. -Nicole

Michelle congrats on your choice to have surgery!

My daugthter had open RNY March 29th and she had very little pain and didn't use her PCA pump nearly as often as she could and never had to ask for a pill for break through pain. She took the Loratabs for a few days when she returned home but didn't even use all that were prescribed to her. I believe everyone has a different level of pain tolerance. I'll let you know if she was really a saint or if it really wasn't that bad after I have mine done on the 16th of May. Same surgeon and same procedure. Sally

Thank you so much for all your responses! This message board has so much info and i have learned so much from you ladies. I will keep everyone informed on my progress - Michelle W

hi michelle... let me just tell you this.. in feb of 2005 i had a gall stone rub thru my gall bladder then thru my intestines next to it and make a blockage... i was in the hospital/icu for 6 weeks... i had a gazillion needles .. they ran out of veins and used one in my neck .. i was on my back for 6 weeks and addicted to percs and ambien when i left.. from what i've heard about the weight loss surgery it's a BREEZE! compaired to my other surgery.. so as a nurse you have no worries ..get a morphine doggy bag to go ! best of luck to ya.

Congrats on starting your journey!! Good Luck, Betsy

I would get approval for 6 weeks out and if you feel like you are able to go back earlier than Hoooya for you. I have an office job, was ready to come back after one week. I did take 2 weeks and the first 2 weeks back I was worn out and looking for a nap around 1 pm ! Better to get approval for more time off, specially when you work as a nurse, have to be dealing with people all the time and have to help with patients being moved and stuff... Don't set yourself up with having to rush back to work (if you can get the time off) Give yourself time to heal and get your head together ! Keep us posted and good luck with your journey ! -Terri