Not sure I can go back to work in 1 week!

[bestbette 0]

Hi All-

I was banded on Monday 7/20 and this last week has been very painfull for me. I wasn't quite prepared for the amount of pain that surgery would bring. It's now Saturday and I'm *very* unsure about going back to work on Monday. I'm having a lot of port site pain. I'm taking the percoset as prescribed and liquid tylenol but my belly is still very bruised and swollen. I have a sedentary desk job but am just unsure that I'll be able to sit up all day!

Any suggestions? :biggrin:

[leseid 0]

Do you have to go back to work this early? Is there any flexibility with your employer? If so, I would really recommend that you take care of yourself first. It will pay off in the long run.

[Brockbabe82 0]

Take the time you need to heal. Maybe you can try going back half day. I hope your employer is understanding. Good luck to you!

[beccab1980 0]

I would take the first part of the week off then start back at half days. If it doesn't work take the rest of the week.

[bambam 0]

I have a sit down job AND work from home, but I took 2 weeks off and am glad I did. I was worried about being uncomfortable and having to sit for 8 hours. With a previous nose and sinus surgery I was very tired and slept a lot so for 2 weeks so I worried about my ability to concentrate on my job when I returned to work after my lapband surgery as well. While this recovery was much easier, I really didn't want to return to work and struggle with my ability to concentrate.

People really vary in how quickly they recover. I have a SIL who had the same surgery and went back to her job after 3 days, so it is really an individual thing.

Hopefully you can take some more time off until you feel you are ready to return to work.

[Donnainva 0]

Try to get in to see the surgeon/PA on Monday. Different companies treat sick leave differently--try to take all the time at once, don't go back Monday and then take the rest of the week off---try to get a note from the surgeon on Monday so you can relax and heal for as long as you need without worrying about going back too soon.

I took a full week off and was very very beat my first week back, I also have a desk job.

[mbranham0306 0]

You're the only one who can decide if you're not ready to go back to work. Listen to your body and just do what you really think you need to do. I had my surgery on the 10th and have been off work since. I plan on going back for half days only this coming week. I just still feel tired and drained and am just now sleeping well.

If you can take the extra time off, I don't think you'll regret it at all. Take your time to heal. :biggrin:

[KimmieJean 0]

My surgeon recommended that I'm off for 2 weeks. You may want to take that extra week, just to be sure.

[rachnesa 0]

My surgery is July 31. My doc said 3-5 days off. I am scheduled 5 days off only. I hope and pray I'll be ok:ohmy:

[anewmein2009 0]

I guess I was very lucky because I went back to work in 3 days and I do not sit at work. I had my surgery on a Friday, went home on Saturday and back to work on Tuesday - I was sore but I was ready... plus, I never shared my "secret" with anyone at work... I feel this is very private and didn't want to hear any advice from skinny people who have no idea what it is to be heavy

[krtork 0]

My surgery is July 31. My doc said 3-5 days off. I am scheduled 5 days off only. I hope and pray I'll be ok:ohmy:

Everybody is different and they respond differently to having surgery. Some people are back to work within three days and others it takes a little bit longer.

Just make sure to do what is best for you. Your body does need time to heal, so I would suggest not pushing going back to work any sooner than you have to.

I think Donnainva has a great suggestion in seeing the surgeon right away to get a medical excuse if you are not feeling ready to get back to work on the planned date.

Good luck with your upcoming surgery!

[Portola Suzanne 3]

I was very sore at my port and fearing the same thing you are. I went and bought a rib support at the drug store and it made all the difference in the world. They are about $20 and just wraps around your middle. Might try it.

[RestlessMonkey 7]

I don't think you should be taking percocet and liquid tylenol together...percocet HAS acetaminophen in it. You get to much you ruin your liver. Please call your pharmacist, ok?

[imaluckydog 0]

Hi, Take time to heal. My Dr. said I could go back in 3 days. I had to take 2 weeks. I have been banded for 3 now. I only have one spot under my bra that rubs and it is still causing me pain its ugly. I have had to go bra-less for a couple of days for this spot to heal. Only you will know how you feel. I say do not rush it if you do not have too. Best Wishes and feel better soon. imaluckydog

[supermom67 0]

My doctor would give me up to 4 weeks off if I need it. Her philosophy is more towards your whole recovery. She wants you to settle in and get accustomed to your new body and lifestyle for long term success. I am slated to go back on August 3rd (about 2 weeks and 3 days out). Last week I was so tired and sore, this week I am feeling great, but noticed when I get tired or "do too much" it affects me.

Your body needs time to adjust to any surgery. If you go back too soon you will prolong your recovery - your well being comes first!

As an HR professional - if you must go back - get your doctor to release you with restrictions (frequent breaks - light duty - reduced schedule etc.) This covers your rights as an employee as well as giving you some wiggle room if you hit a rough patch.