Question:
I am a high school teacher hoping to have an Open RNY within the next few months.

After surgery, if everything goes according to plan. How soon after are people able to return to work? I have not had my pre-op with my surgeon yet and am wonder what my time off work will be. Thanks for any advice.    — [Anonymous] (posted on January 28, 2001)

January 28, 2001
I am also a high school teacher. I had open BPD/DS on May 30 and returned to school in the fall. I was concerned about quickly my body would bounce back because I am 51 yrs. old. I chose to have the entire summer to recuperate and I am very glad I did. When I returned in the fall, I felt good, had gotten into the new eating habits, and had lots of energy. This worked for me. If you have any questions, feel free to email me. Good luck!
   — Ruth M.

January 28, 2001
If time is an issue, have you considered laparascopic RNY? The post-op recovery period and return to functional mobility is much quicker than with any open surgery. Please feel free to write if you're interested in more information regarding lap RNY: [email protected]
   — Diana T.

January 29, 2001
I agree with Diana...considered LAP? I had my surgery on a Tues, in hospital until Thurs, flew home,GA to WA, Sunday and back to work Monday(sit down job). With no pain and just a little tired.
   — Debora H.

January 29, 2001
Frankly, I believe the open surgery is better than laproscopic for a number of reasons. However, even lap patients need to take the time to heal -- because their "insides" have had just as much cutting, sewing, rerouting, and stapling as we "opens" have had. And, it is just as important not to lift over 10 pounds or do anything like vacuuming for 6 to 8 weeks to heal properly and avoid a hernia! (VERY IMPORTANT). Some people tend to like to brag about how quickly they returned to work, but we don't need to try to be superwomen! This surgery is MAJOR and our bodies undergo a great amount of stress (thus, the potential hair loss) and need plenty of time to rest and recoop. If you can, I suggest you take off at least 4 weeks from teaching, and could return to half days at that time if you feel like it (you may, you may not). I believe the longer you recoop and rest, the better you'll bounce back. Best wishes on whatever you decide.
   — Cindy H.

January 29, 2001
I also am a teacher (8th grade). I had LAP RNY on August 21, 2000 and returned to work on September 8th. I was a bit tired but it wasnt bad at all. I was lucky because it was the beginning of the year and the kids were "angels". Honestly, the benefit of teaching is that you will not have to lift anything BUT you are on your feet a lot. I totally recommend the LAP as something to look into. I didn't push myself, napped when I got home for the first few weeks and I feel great now. And the kids think I am one of the kids now! Please email me if you have any other concerns.
   — Jeannet

February 23, 2003
I am a middle school teacher. I returned to work after two weeks. I had lap surgery. Of course, I only had to teach for two weeks before winter break. At three months post op and 54 lbs lighter, I know that I would do it again.
   — Rebecca H.