I'd been told that I should be able to return to work within 1 -2 weeks after my operation, however when being released from the hospital, they told me I wouldn't be able to drive for six weeks. I was horrified. I have to drive to work - there is no suitable alternative. A girl in the room opposite who'd had the gastric bypass was told she had to have six weeks off work and couldn't drive for two weeks.

I was just wondering what length of time others couldn't drive for - as I just can't imagine being off work for a whole six weeks.

I had my surgery on a Wednesday and drove 6 hours home on Friday afternoon, no problem! Doc gave me some non drowsy pain meds. (I think like advil but they melted on my tongue). The 1st 24 hours of surgery are rough. After that you start feeling normal. No lifting or heavy physical stuff for 6 weeks.