Recovery times?

[slimbydecember]

Hey everyone

How long did it take before people felt they could drive and return to work after having the band put in?

I'm having mine on the 1st February and i'm starting a new job on 7th February. It's in an office where I sit down all day but I need to drive to get there.

Thanks

Hayley

 

[cazbandy]

Hi there

It is hard to answer as everyone is different.

I can only give you my story.

I came home in good spirits but feeling like a elephant had kicked me. The pain killers stopped most of the pain but as you can imagine, you have been cut through abdominal muscles and sitting up or bending down was nigh on impossible LOL. I had to get hubbs to put socks on.

I did not get good sleep till about 7-10 days after operation, as uncomfortable at night.

Also I was told not to drive for 2 weeks as I may not get insurance.

I dont drive so that was not an issue for me, but you will be best to check these things out before your op.

TBH...

I would not have been ready to go back till after week 2, so you will have to wait and see...

I would let your new workplace know you are having abdominal surgery on 1st and should be be able to start on 7th but if there are any reasons (such as complications) could start date be delayed?

 

[BlueDiamond]

Well personally I didnt have too rush back too work, but if I would of had too in 6 days would have been too soon for me. Even though I was able to get up and walk about etc, driving was a no no for me for about 2 weeks , I know everyone is different but as Caz said maybe forewarning your employers wouldnt be a bad thing. Better too be safe then sorry I would think, Julie xx

 

[Mazza]

Hi

Everyones different but I had my op on a Saturday and was home on Sunday morning, took the next week off and back at work on the following Monday. I went to the doctors on the Friday for a wound check and was given the all clear to drive, after saying I was ok to do an emergency stop.

You might be ok but just incase warn the new company, you might be able to do shorter hours etc.

Walk around as much as you can post op to build up your strength but dont over do it - you wont be getting may calories in

Good luck x

 

[kateyloo]

I would let your new workplace know you are having abdominal surgery on 1st and should be be able to start on 7th but if there are any reasons (such as complications) could start date be delayed?

This is great advice - I actually work in employment law and I am not sure if you are aware of the new 'fit note' legislation? Instead of a doctor signing you off for say - a month - they will assess you on a weekly basis and advise you what you can and can't do - this means you might be able to start your new job on the 7th but only work a certain number of hours - or at least take breaks more frequently - if they are a decent enough employer then they will respect that you require surgery and won't kick up a fuss.

I am having surgery on Sunday and was told they would give me a 2 week certificate - I am lucky enough to work from home so I am hoping I can maybe do some work before the 2 week period - I also run my own cupcake/confectionary company and have an order for the Friday after I come out of the hospital so again I am hoping I am fit enough for that!

Good luck with your surgery and the new job xx

 

[slimbydecember]

Thanks guys. I have contacted my new workplace and let them know that I am having surgery the week before and that I may not be in ship shape for Monday. I just want to be well enough or I lose pay!

 

[thinkbethin]

I felt rough for around 5 days but I don't work so I did'nt have to rush around. It was'nt an "ill" feeling it was just uncomfortable when moving around and getting in the right position to sleep. Good luck with your op and good luck with your new job xx

 

[mandym1]

Sorry to hijack this thread :hijack: hope you dont mind,but can I ask the same question regarding bypass? How long did it take to recover?

I know everyone is different but would be good to see the variations.

(My employers are not sympathetic so I wont be telling them what I'm having done)

 

[JOWOOD4]

Hi there
I had my band on the Tuesday morning and i went back to work the next monday and drove myself there. I would recommend a longer time off as I didnt really feel well enough if I am honest. The two weeks off is ideal I think.
Hope this helps
Jo XX