Hi. I don't have my banding date set yet, most likely mid-April. I've seen many people on here who fly 6 hours the day after surgery, but I'm wondering about a 9-hour drive the day after surgery. I'm thinking about going to visit my brother during the time that I'm off work, since I won't get any more sick time or vacation time for a while. I know I can recuperate while I'm there, it's just that I'll be that far from home (and my surgeon). Anyone else out there that has recuperated somewhere other than home? Thanks.

I don't know about driving if you mean YOU'LL be driving for that long. That may not be a good idea for a trip that long. I could drive the second day home but still that's a long trip for immediately post-op. If you feel up to it and you're not driving, just riding, then you'll probably be OK. I had to hold a pillow against my belly for support while in the car on day two because my belly was sore and the bouncing in the car was a little much. I was never in *pain* but I'm not sure I could've ridden in a car that long so soon. That's just my story. You might feel perfectly fine but I'd wait to see how you feel before you make your final decision. Good luck!

I flew for 5 hours, and was in a car for another 5 just to get home on the 3rd day after surgery. I did it just fine. I was exhausted by the time we got home. I did it because I had to to get home! Would I have done it that soon if it were an option---I doubt it! I would have babied ME!!!! I would have laid around, taken it easy, and enjoyed some down time. I was banded during a very busy time in our life, we were remodeling a home for my DD---so a little relaxing time would have been nice---not so much because it was needed---would have just been enjoyed.

Think it over, it is a looooong day so soon after major surgery.

IF you do go---stop the car, get out and walk around every hour. Keep your feel moving in the car---

DO NOT wear knee high socks, or hose---

Consider wearing support hosiery for the trip--

Blood clots are something to take very seriously!!!

Kat