I'm currently trying to plan out my next few month which will hopefully include my gastric sleeve surgery. As a project-based freelancer, I have the challenge of trying to find an appropriate time for surgery & recovery that will gel with my current & future projects.

One thing that I'm trying to figure out is how much time I should truly block off for recovery. My doctor says I should be able to go back to work in 7-10 days since I have an office-based job (little physical activity necessary).

In your experiences, what is realistic when it comes to recovery time?

I had surgery on Thursday, discharged Saturday and back at work Wednesday. But I was bored brainless by Monday and was sooooo tempted to go back to my desk job. I was in absolutely no pain and since I'm allergic to pain meds, couldn't have taken them anyway!!

It seems like everyone is very, very different. So possibly not much help!!

I was automatically given a 4 week work note but i totally could go back to work tomorrow with no problem. I am 4 days out. I had 2 coworkers who had wls recently and both took 6 weeks off. Not exactly sure why. I see my doc on the 18th and will be talking to him about releasing me then.

Pre-surgery we were told we could return to work as soon as no pain meds were required. I was allowed 4 weeks (also under FLMA)..I felt I could have returned after 2 bur the recommended I take the full 4. It was best since I was able to resume some exercise and when I came back it was for full-time each day though 1/2 days would have been permitted. Hardest part was missing that after lunch and 2:00 pm caffeine boost from coffee

I have a feeling I will miss my afternoon coffee break/caffeine boost as well.

I took off 1 week, I have a desk job. When I went back I wasn't in pain, but I tired very easily and was exhausted by the end of the day. I am 55, not sure how much of a factor that was in the exhaustion. If I had to do it over again I would have taken off 1 week and then worked half days for a week or two when I returned.

That sounds like a pretty good idea to ease back into work with half days. Thanks!

I had my sleeve on tues, Was out on thurs am. I am a nailgirl..on fri I went in in the afternoon and did 2 clients. I was fine and my dr said to do wat I felt like doing...sat I worked a couple hrs, rested 2 hrs and went back. I hv to say a week off woulda been great but im a single mom and I hv to pay the bills!!! Good luck on ur journey

Thank you! I'm looking forward to the positive changes.

I was off 8 weeks. my job requires lifting 50 lbs. There is no way that was happening before 8 weeks. It took awhile to regain my stamina. It took a full 6 weeks for me to feel normal. Everyone is different.... Best wishes with your surgery.

Thank you!

A week later. I know what you guys are saying 'You're crazy...' I am a contractor. I don't get paid if I don't work. I felt fine. I carry a bag with me everyday with Protein, Vitamins, MIO for my Water and now soft foods. I'm 3 1/2 weeks out and I feel great. The first 3 weeks, before food, I can admit, after work an picking up kids and homework, I feel asleep quickly and was always tired.

Thanks for the info. I suspect I'll have to be cautious of feeling tired when I go back t work.

I had surgery on Thursday, discharged Saturday and back at work Wednesday. But I was bored brainless by Monday and was sooooo tempted to go back to my desk job. I was in absolutely no pain and since I'm allergic to pain meds, couldn't have taken them anyway!!

It seems like everyone is very, very different. So possibly not much help!!

Thanks. No doubt about it, everyone has a slightly different experience. But, it's helpful to hear everyone's experience as I plan my surgery & recovery.