Time Off Post-Op

I am scheduled for RNY surgery March 14th! On day 2 on liquids only for my pre-op.  Can anyone give suggestions on how long they were off work after the surgery? Just trying to plan ahead a bit!

Thanks!!

I think it depends a  lot on you and your job.  I work from home and don't do anything physical at work.  I did what I needed to in my own time so although I got everything done, it took a lot longer.  Another friend who had a desk job took 2 weeks off and then added a 3rd week.  I would give yourself at least 2 weeks.  I had a very easy recovery with no nausea or complications and I still wouldn't have wanted to have to go into a job before 2-3 weeks.  You will be sore from surgery and tired from the anestesia, plus it is a full time job in the beginning just getting your liquids and protein in. 
Good luck on your surgery and pre-op diet.  Your day will be here soon.

My motto is: "Plan for the worst, and hope for the best." I had complications and was off work for about 8 weeks. I would allow yourself at least 3-4 weeks, to give yourself time to adjust to the routine of getting enough protein and fluids, and getting in your vitamins. Being on such a low calorie diet and the effects of anesthesia, really contributes to fatigue and problems with concentration during those early weeks. The first month is the most difficult. Just my two cents worth. Many people sail through without any complications.

Everyone is different and it depends on the type of work that you do.  I work at a desk all day.  I had surgery on a Monday morning and could have gone back to work the following Monday but my surgeon is 200 miles from my home and he didn't wanted me to stay in town close for 1 1/2 weeks.  I went back to work the following Thursday and was fine, just a little tired.

Good luck.

Linda

I had the same surgeon as lerkhart.  He wanted me to stay in town for 2 weeks after surgery (because I live so far away), but he let me go after 10 days.  I was off work for 3 weeks and I needed the 3 weeks.  I probably could have pushed myself after 2 weeks, but it would have been a push.  Plan to take off plenty of time, you can always go back earlier if you feel like it.

I have a desk job.  I didn't have any complications.  I missed 9 days of work.  It took about 6 weeks to overcome the fatigue.

Kay

I stay at home, but I just wanted to say GOOD LUCK!! My brother took two weeks off of his job. He has a high labor job, so I don't know how that compares for you.

Thank you all for the suggestions. I have a desk job (from home!) but I have plenty of time to take off and think that I will take at least two full weeks. It is a job where I am very busy and do have to make a lot of decisions, so I guess if I need three weeks I will be ready for that too! Pre-op liquid diet is going easier than I thought....then again it has only been two days!! But I am down a pound a day :) 

I took 4 weeks off, but could have gone back after 3. Only reason I took the 4 was because I had my surgery in VA and live in MI.  I had to stick around for follow up Dr's visits. 

2 weeks would have been pushing it for me.  I was still taking my daily naps after 2 weeks...

After reading all of your posts I feel so lucky that my doc is just 10 minute drive away! I went yesterday for one of the required pre-op support groups and I was the only one that showed up----ok we were having a bit of a blizzard---but it gave me a full free hour with the dietician and the psych lady (she has had the surgery before) and I got to ask lots and lots of questions. I am feeling better and more prepared now!