Question:
What type of physcal activites can I do after WLS ?

My husband who is going to have surgery was wondering just what type of physical activites would he be able to do after the surgery, such as cutting wood, weight lifting,shoveling dirt, etc. some of these he hasn't been able to do lately because of the pain it causes in his back because of the excess weight, has anyone been able to do these type of activities ?    — Jennie D. (posted on May 6, 2001)

May 5, 2001
My husband had his lap RNY 9 weeks ago and has lost 65 pounds so far. He has more energy and feels better than he has felt in the past 15 years! He has cleaned out the basement, plowed and planted a garden, rebuilt a fence around our property, and is presently re-landscaping our yard. In addition, he's walking 2 miles a day. I'm SO excited, I've been waiting a long time to get this "honey-do" list done! Seriously, it's extremely important to follow your surgeon's guidelines regarding lifting and activity. Lap patients will have less pain and a shorter post-op recovery period than "open" patients, but either technique is still a major surgery involving general anesthesia and demands that patients get adequate rest and sleep post-op. My husband was instructed not to lift more than 15 pounds during the first 6 weeks, and then to resume any activity that was comfortable. As the weight comes off, energy soars and co-morbidity symptoms fade. I see no reason why your husband can't do all the things he wants to do or has done in the past....as well as all the things YOU'VE wanted and needed done in the past! :-) Good luck!
   — Diana T.

May 5, 2001
I had Open RNY and at my 6 week check up I told my doctor how I had removed a small tree from my backyard. I was bowling at 5 weeks post op (okay, so it knocked me out, but I did it!). Yard work doesn't make me sore anymore, although I do sleep well! Anyhow, my lastest small blessing is the ability to walk two miles in 83 degrees without my thighs sweating and chapping. How cool!
   — Allie B.

May 6, 2001
Jennie, My surgeon's advice was similar to Diana's. No lifting more than 15 lbs for the first six weeks, although he did encourage the use of hand weights to build upper body strength. In other words, avoid stressing the abdominal compartment. Hernias are a concern and happen 25% of the time irregardless, you just don't want to tempt fate. "Other" activities, it's Sunday morning, don't want to be too graphic are enhanced beyond belief, especially when the fatique goes away 4 weeks postop-he is going to wear you out! It's a good thing!
   — Margaret S.