Question:
I've noticed that many on this board have

I am trying to figure out a ball-park idea of when I can return to work. I had open RNY 4 weeks ago. I work EMS in the busiest boro in NYC and I often carry 200+ pound patients down alot of stairs, among other things. I searched the library, but it's all regarding desk jobs. When I say heavy labor, I mean HEAVY. Am I looking at about 2-3 months? Thanks alot :)    — Kelly C. (posted on July 7, 2002)

July 7, 2002
You are looking at a minimum of 3 months with NO lifting of anything over 10 pounds. My surgeon said 90 days--3 months. Recently, someone told me she got a hernia 9 months after her surgery when she picked up a 50 pound bag of dog food and slung it over her shoulder. So be careful.
   — artistmama

July 7, 2002
I don't have an idea about 200+ lbs. I have horses and my surgeon made me wait for 10 weeks just to lift 50 lb feed bags!
   — Michelle W.

July 7, 2002
I was told 6 weeks before I could 100lb computer monitors. Good Luck
   — Robert L.