So I know that Advil was off limits prior or surgery and after but for how long? I am 8 weeks post op and have the biggest headache...think it's safe?

You should be OK to take a single dose, but do call your doc's office and talk to a nurse to be sure!! They may base their answer on how you're doing with acid reflux etc... But the nurses should totally be able to get right back to you.

My doc had me wait until 3 mos to take a dafer NSAID - and it bothered my stomach.

Keep in mind that ANYONE who takes any NSAID should ALWAYS take it with food. That will decrease the possibility of it bothering your stomach. The irritation NSAIDs can cause can be "silent" (without outward symptoms), so be aware that lack of stomach upset does not necessarily mean your stomach is not irritated.

My surgeon said that starting about 4 months post op I can take NSAIDs for short periods, but I should never take them long term again like I did pre-op (for osteoarthritis pain in my knees, hips and shoulders).

Thanks...I took two and didn't seem to have a problem.