Question:
11 days post op, feeling very weak, cant be up for too long..

I am supposed to be returning to work on 5/13. Will I get alot better between now and then, right now I feel so weak. I had open RNY along with TUmmy Tuck. Yesterday was very dehydrated, couldnt be up for more than a few minutes without feeling light headed. Is weakness just due to dehydration? I am afraid I wont be able to go back to work Monday. Also, what can be done to help losen the muscles from TT, they are so tight it is difficult to move.    — Michell C. (posted on May 6, 2002)

May 6, 2002
Michelle - I had open RNY 1 year ago and my doctor said I would be out 4 - 6 weeks. I went back to him after week 3 and he let me go back part time. I did not have the tummy tuck so I can't help with that but I think you should talk to your surgeon. You had major surgery and need time to heal. Good luck. Karen
   — Karen Q.

May 6, 2002
Hi. I also had a TT with my RNY. I went back to work after three weeks and I only did half days. That was plenty for me, I too was weak and nauseous. Don't over do it or you'll pay in the long run. I remember my back hurting too from the TT. It gets a little better each day, you can stand up a little straighter. Again, don't rush it or you could damage your stomach. Hang in there, it gets better!
   — Brenda H.

May 6, 2002
At eleven day I could not even get out of bed. I had open rny gallbladder and appendix out and it was eight weeks before I started to feel better. My Dr. had me off for 10 weeks. I did not do as well as some it take some alot longer to heal than others. I wish you luck.
   — Lori T.

May 6, 2002
If you had a Open RNY and a tummy tuck, 2 weeks is way too soon to go back to work. I went back part time after 3 weeks (open RNY) but wish I would have tried to get another week or two. I was very tire the first three weeks, and still am now at 9 weeks. This is normal for surgery and I have been told that a normal overweight person eating the small amount that we eat post op would be tired too. Try to get as much liquids as you can as this will help. Good luck.
   — Dell H.

May 6, 2002
YES! Dehydration will make you feel exactly how you are! I became dehydrated after my RNY and had to go to the ER for fluids 4 times. If you feel too bad don't hesitate to go in for a quick dose of fluids! You begin to get your strength back as the fluids enter your body! Its Awesome!
   — elifritz