The decision to undergo weight loss surgery is exciting! You’re imagining the positive ways your life will change after surgery, and how your health and confidence will improve. But surgical weight loss does require some recovery time, which means you may need to consider taking some time off work.
How long will I need to take off work?
The answer is: it depends on your job and your daily tasks! If you’re unsure about how much recovery time you’ll need, be sure speak directly to your surgeon and nursing team. They’ll be able to provide the most accurate guidance, based on your profession. To provide a sample guideline, here are a few examples of the amount of time off required, depending on your profession:
- If you work behind a computer all day and your employer will allow you to work from home for a week or two, you may only need to take a week off to recuperate after your surgery.
- If your job requires you to be physically present at your workplace and spend most of your time sitting behind a desk, you should plan to take at least two weeks off.
- If your job requires you to be physically present at your workplace and lift heavy objects (10 pounds or more), you should plan to take at least four weeks off.
Why do I need to take time off work?
Whether you choose to have the gastric sleeve, gastric band or Lap-Band™, or mini gastric bypass surgery, you will need some time to rest after your surgery. Bariatric surgery is done laparoscopically, which means only small surgical cuts are required to perform the procedure. This less invasive surgery method allows for a shorter healing time and minimal scarring. Most patients are up and walking around the day after their surgery. However, there may be some residual drowsiness from the anesthesia. It’s important to give your body time to rest, recover, and recuperate after surgery.
You should also avoid lifting heavy object or engaging in intensive physical activity for about four weeks after your surgery. This is to ensure you don’t pull any stiches and accidentally open your surgical cuts while they’re healing.
Ready to Become the Best Version of Yourself? Start with a Free Consultation at SmartShape Weight Loss Centre in Ontario, Canada.
If you’re ready to end the cycle of yo-yo dieting for good, SmartShape Weight Loss Centre is here to help. You can achieve safe, sustainable, and long-term weight loss with weight loss surgery from Canada’s first Bariatric Center of Excellence.
Weight loss surgery is more accessible and common than you think – if your BMI is 30 or above, you’re a candidate for weight loss surgery in Canada. Weight loss surgery options from SmartShape Weight Loss Centre include the gastric sleeve, gastric band or Lap-Band™, or mini gastric bypass surgery We help Canadians across the country lose weight, achieve their health goals, and regain their confidence.
All SmartShape patients have access to our unique 5-year Aftercare Success Program, which provides the support you need to successfully reach your goals and overcome challenges. Our Aftercare Success Program offers personalized support from our team of nurses, registered dietitians, and bariatric surgeons. Your aftercare can be conducted virtually (via phone, email, and webinars) or in-person at our Mississauga location, depending on your preference and location.
If you’re ready to finally lose the excess weight for good, learn more about our weight loss surgery procedures and read about our patient success stories.
SmartShape’s weight loss team is here to help you get started. Book a free virtual consultation with one of our weight loss surgeons to learn which weight loss procedure is right for your needs. We can’t wait to help you become the best version of yourself.