Question:
How long on average is one out of work?

I want to have the surger done Lap, but there is a chance i'll have to have it done OPEN. I don't want to be out of work to long because i can't afford it. How long on average is one out of work, In the case of complication free surgeries?    — Patti K. (posted on January 6, 2001)

January 6, 2001
I had open RNY (no complications) and started bowling with a 13 lb. ball at 5 weeks, so I supposed that if I had a job then, I would have returned. It really depends on the type of job you have; are you on your feet all day? At a desk? Is is high-stress? If possible, start back a few hours a day until you reacclimate yourself. Good luck!
   — Allie B.

January 6, 2001
I had an open RNY and returned to work 2 1/2 weeks later. I worked 6 1/2 hour days for two weeks and then went back full time. I didn't have to do anything strenuous during this time so it was no problem.
   — Helen C.

January 6, 2001
Following a complication-free lap RNY, I returned to a full-time office position in 8 days. My daughter also had a lap RNY without complications and returned to full-time work teaching a class of rambunctious 4 year olds in 14 days. Regardless of which procedure you have, it's still major surgery and your body will require several weeks to completely recover, even if you feel up to going back to work. Be sure to follow your surgeon's instructions re: lifting and try to get as much rest/sleep possible. If you over-do early on, you'll only pay for it later :-)
   — Diana T.

January 6, 2001
Are you eligible for short term disability? My lap-rny is scheduled for 1/29/01 and I'll be paid 100% for 4 weeks, if needed.
   — Debra K.

January 6, 2001
I took two months off. This was an extreme amount of time. However, I had open distal RNY done mid Oct. My work is extremely busy during the Xmas holiday. I just did not want to return too soon, have complications and receive flack from my supervisors about receiving additional time off. Physically and mentally, I was tired during that time. Boy was it a good rest and recovery.
   — Jan M.

January 6, 2001
I had open VBG on Wednesday and went to work 1/2 days on Monday. I am an insurance agent. I had difficulty concentrating for about 3 weeks because of the anesthesia. After 3 weeks I was fine. My doc advised to return to normal activities immediately with the exception of driving and lifting over 15 pounds for 6 weeks.
   — [Anonymous]