post-op travel

clickersister · March 7, 2007

Hi. I don't have my banding date set yet, most likely mid-April. I've seen many people on here who fly 6 hours the day after surgery, but I'm wondering about a 9-hour drive the day after surgery. I'm thinking about going to visit my brother during the time that I'm off work, since I won't get any more sick time or vacation time for a while. I know I can recuperate while I'm there, it's just that I'll be that far from home (and my surgeon). Anyone else out there that has recuperated somewhere other than home? Thanks.

LapBandit · March 8, 2007

I don't know about driving if you mean YOU'LL be driving for that long. That may not be a good idea for a trip that long. I could drive the second day home but still that's a long trip for immediately post-op. If you feel up to it and you're not driving, just riding, then you'll probably be OK. I had to hold a pillow against my belly for support while in the car on day two because my belly was sore and the bouncing in the car was a little much. I was never in *pain* but I'm not sure I could've ridden in a car that long so soon. That's just my story. You might feel perfectly fine but I'd wait to see how you feel before you make your final decision. Good luck!

Kat817 · March 8, 2007

I flew for 5 hours, and was in a car for another 5 just to get home on the 3rd day after surgery. I did it just fine. I was exhausted by the time we got home. I did it because I had to to get home! Would I have done it that soon if it were an option---I doubt it! I would have babied ME!!!! I would have laid around, taken it easy, and enjoyed some down time. I was banded during a very busy time in our life, we were remodeling a home for my DD---so a little relaxing time would have been nice---not so much because it was needed---would have just been enjoyed.

Think it over, it is a looooong day so soon after major surgery.

IF you do go---stop the car, get out and walk around every hour. Keep your feel moving in the car---

DO NOT wear knee high socks, or hose---

Consider wearing support hosiery for the trip--

Blood clots are something to take very seriously!!!

Kat