This is my first using a discussion board, so please forgive if this is posted elsewhere. I plan to have the gastric sleeve this fall in Mexico, using Dr. Ismael Cabrara at MBC. I was wondering if anyone just took PTO and did not inform their work about having surgery or if you took FMLA/short term disability? I work from home, simple desk job, so I would assume that I could return to work very soon after surgery. However I was thinking about taking 2 weeks FMLA to be on the safe side. To return to work after taking FMLA my work requires a return to work slip from the doctor. I was wondering how to obtain this if I have surgery in Mexico. Is this something the surgeon their could give me in advance or should I try and follow up with a doctor once I get back into the States?

@@JazzyJade I would recommend taking the FMLA. You never know if there will be complications that may delay your recovery. If you don't end up needing the time - then you could go back sooner. Your surgeon in Mexico will complete the paperwork for FMLA. Contact them to find out how that works exactly. Good luck.

I believe you have to have follow-up here as well though - and that Dr. may need to release you to go back to work.

Edited June 22, 201610 yr by KristenLe

I agree. If you have short term take it. I'm taking 6 weeks. I know it sounds a bit much but I have short term and I'm going to take advantage of it. The best place to get better is at home. You will be dealing with a lot of changes both physically and emotionally.