Weight loss surgery and work

If you want to keep the surgery private when it comes time to take a few weeks off, just casually mention you are having a hernia repair. It has similar recovery and no one will question it. 

I did not tell ANYONE at my office about my surgery.  I told 1 HR person only because I had to explain why I would be off.  Otherwise no-one knows.  It's none of their business!  When I'm asked I simply say "it took a COMPLETE overhaul.  I cut out sugar, bread, pasta..." similar to PP's response.

Now as far as your new job is concerned that's tough.  I know how long it takes to get through the WLS process.  I had a few things come up that I had to keep shifting my surgery date (my brother's wedding in Mexico, my support system would be away).  I hated having to keep pushing the date further and further away, but in the end it was all worth it.  I didn't miss my brother's wedding, and obviously I needed my support system and my date still arrived even though it was "so far away"

So September 22 is your consultation with the surgeon.  I don't know what the wait times are like now, but it may still be a couple months before your surgery.  Depending on what your new job is and the hours, try to schedule it outside of work as much as you can, or spread out the appointments a little more.  I know it adds more time, and that sucks, but if we want to "have it all" there are some concessions we have to make.

GL!!

Thank you everyone for your suggestions it's very helpful. I like the idea of just saying that I am out for a hernia repair...good idea!

Good post. I don't want to tell anyone. I have told about two family members that is all. I'm trying to figure out how to deal with work when my time comes up in December or January. I have channels I have to follow. I don't think I'm obligated to say anything at all. I like the idea of just saying "Procedure" I hope that is workable. I do like the idea of "Women" procedure too. I so don't want everyone and the world knowing. I wonder if my doctor wrote that if it would be good enough for HR. I guess that is a convo I need to have with them before to long. I know I can't ask for this date in advance with work. I'm hoping to get my date, then just put in for the time off for a "Procedure"