Question:
Post-op Open RNY - How long until you could drive?

Hello All. Having surgery on the 21st. I'm nervous, excited, scared and thrilled at the same time. Single and live alone. Also Very allergic to pain. Curious about how long before you could drive with the Open surgery. By the way, did I say scared...I meant terrrriffieed.! LOL.    — Kimberly J. (posted on July 10, 2003)

July 9, 2003
Kimberly, I was released to drive 12 days post-op. Actually my surgeon is now saying that you can drive as soon as you are no longer taking pain medication. If he had gone by that when I had my surgery, I could have driven the next day after I left the hospital since I didn't take any pain meds after being discharged. The feeling you have are normal; but soon you will be past the bad part on on your way to a great new life.
   — Patty_Butler

July 9, 2003
I had open RNY in Arpil and was told I had to wait 2 weeks after surgery to drive.
   — Sarahlicious

July 10, 2003
I just had my 4-week appointment yesterday, and was finally released to drive. The reason it took me so long is that my incision is open and being packed, and the doctor wanted me to play it safe an extra couple of weeks. (open rny post-op 4 weeks)
   — Dragon G.

July 11, 2003
I drove the night I came home from the hospital. I probably shouldn't have, but oh well. There are two things to consider: 1) narcotic pain meds, and 2) you will not be able to twist or turn your torso for a while (no checking blind spot). Once you are off your pain meds and can twist your torso, you should be fine. But check with your surgeon.
   — Cosmo K.

July 11, 2003
My surgeon didn't want me to drive until my staples were out because of the the risk of having an accident and hitting the steering wheel with a belly full of staples. I got may staples out 2 1/2 weeks after surgery. Take some time and figure out what you are so afraid of. Talk about it, journal about it, pray about it. Do some relaxation exercises or some guided imagery to help with the fear. You'll be so much more comfortable before and after surgery if you can deal with the fear and find some peace. Laura 1 month post-op
   — Laura K.