I'm undergoing a revision from a slipped lapband to a sleeve this week. I am only about 20 pounds from my goal. However, as this was an unexpected situation, I'm concerned about my future travels. I received a fellowship to travel abroad and it will begin 5 weeks after my surgery. Declining the fellowship is not something I want to do--it's a great opportunity.

I know that it varies from person to person and that if there are any complications. that will make a difference, but for a young/otherwise healthy person and a smooth operation/recovery, is 5 weeks enough time to heal before embarking on a 2-month trip? I will be traveling (by train, plane, bus) approximately every week during those two months. Otherwise (hopefully!) doing a lot of sightseeing and lecturing. I have purchased trip insurance, so if I need to fly back to the US for an emergency situation, I'm covered. The places I'm traveling to all have excellent healthcare, and my companion is well-informed about my situation. I plan to do nothing but rest and try to recover for the 5 weeks leading up to the trip.

I guess I'm asking for tips on energy so I'm not exhausted as well as things to look out for/be vigilant concerning. Multivitamin recommendations, etc.? I have a prescription for 30 days of Prevacid; should I get enough to cover those 2 months?

All words of advice and caution are welcome. General stories about how you felt 5 weeks out of a sleeve would be great information. Thank you all in advance.

5 weeks is plenty enough time, you should even be on solids by then because stomach should be healed. You don't have to worry about busting a stitch at that point. I was doing 5 mile hikes at 4 weeks out and felt fine, just keep up with the protein. Safe travels

@@almosttogoal my surgeon had no problem with the idea of me traveling overseas 4 weeks out. As it happens, I am not going to be able to get my surgery before I leave because of a hold-up with my insurance. It's scheduled for two weeks after I get back. But I had come to the conclusion that traveling WAS possible. I just planned to take a lot of Protein -- in the form of powders and tuna packs. If you can get good sources of protein where you're going, you should be ok (at least from what I've read…I've not had my surgery yet.)

Best of luck to you, and congratulations on your fellowship! Do keep us all posted on your progress.