I'm getting sleeved on September 20, and I'm currently scheduled to play in a golf tournament the weekend of October 15. Is this realistic?

You'll be able to play, no problem. But I have to ask, what is the nature of the tournament? 3 days, 18 holes each day with walking, no carts? Will you have to carry your bag? Or, is it a Saturday afternoon charity 4 person scramble with carts and beer wenches running around the course supplying you with all sorts of good stuff?

If it is the first, don't expect to play competitively, but if it is the second, you'll have a no problem. Just take lots of liquids before and with you on the course. Be sure to have most of your Protein in you before as well.

I was cleared for light exercise 6 weeks out. I would not risk taking full swings that soon, it is not worth it. You might be fine, might not. I have had a perfect recovery with no issues but I was very careful and followed ALL instructions from my surgeon. I would ask your surgeon and then make your decision on the conservative side.

I was told I could golf after 4 weeks, but couldn't carry or lift my golf bag until 6 weeks out.

I played in a work-related 18 hole golf outing exactly six weeks after surgery. I had my 6-week post op visit at the Doctor in the morning and was cleared to golf that afternoon. Actually, I was cleared for any and all physical activity on that date. No more restrictions. I will say that even though we used a cart, I was really tired by the end of the day. It was also the first day I could eat meat that had not been pulverized so it was a particularly memorable day!

You'll be able to play, no problem. But I have to ask, what is the nature of the tournament? 3 days, 18 holes each day with walking, no carts? Will you have to carry your bag? Or, is it a Saturday afternoon charity 4 person scramble with carts and beer wenches running around the course supplying you with all sorts of good stuff?

If it is the first, don't expect to play competitively, but if it is the second, you'll have a no problem. Just take lots of liquids before and with you on the course. Be sure to have most of your Protein in you before as well.

No, nothing that grand. Just an 18-hole with cart for a charity. I'm a bit worried about hurting myself, but I hate not to play since I committed to it. I guess the best thing to do is ask my surgeon what he thinks.

Without a doubt, talk to your surgeon. I was told to do what feels right. For me, I had been going to the gym religiously before my surgery and was able to to half an hour on the elliptical no problem. My endurance was great, which I believe translates into a faster recovery. I was back at the gym 4 days after my surgery and was doing half an hour on the elliptical. It felt great, but that was me. I did what my body felt it could do and no more.

Be sure to hit the driving range beforehand to get warmed up. If something doesn't feel right, just ride in the cart and participate in the putting. Have fun!