ive had a laparotomy

[custard kid]

ive had a laparotomy because i had a division of peritoneal folds.how long will i be off work and back to normal lifting and running.

[nyc lady]

I was out of work for 6 weeks, actually went back off the books at week 5 which was a big mistake, I needed the extra week.

I was able to be home alone, I lived alone at the time, after they removed my staples, approximately 10 days after surgery.  I felt okay, but, would tire easily.  Externally you may be healed, but not internally.

There was no lifting anything more then about 10 pounds, no laundry, no vacuming, no sex for 6 weeks.  Basically your only job should be taking care of yourself.  

[Cagney2712]

I had a laparotomy in Feb. I also live alone. A friend did stay with me for the 1st couple of days after I got home from the hospital,  but after day three I was on my own. The two things that came in handiest for me were "grabbers" so that I could pick things up without bending over, and seat risers for my toilets. I had no problem doing basic things like making my own meals, showering, etc., though I did arrange for a pet sitter to come in daily to clean my cats litter boxes for me for a couple of weeks. I went grocery shopping myself after 3 weeks, but was very careful not to carry anything very heavy.  I was lucky and had a pretty smooth recovery. I even made a trip to California just 4 weeks after surgery and was able to enjoy the vacation. But, I did get tired more easily. I went back to work 6 weeks after surgery. I really had no problems with that, other than by the end of the day I was pretty tired.  Everyone heals differently,  but probably a good rule of thumb is 6 weeks off of work, and take it pretty easy during that time. Even though you may feel good,  your body was through alot, so you have to be careful not to push yourself too much