I took 4 weeks off. My doctor said that having this surgery is like hitting "the control, alt, delete" button on my body. I am amazed about how many people go back so quickly. I could have gone back at 3 weeks, but I'm glad I was on regular foods by the time I went back. It takes so much effort to remember to track your fluids, there is NO WAY I could have concentrated on work. Plus I also had to get 2 kids up and off to school. Take as much time as you can, you can ALWAYS go back earlier. Good Luc,