Being alone post-op

[Butterflyhigh 504]

Everyone's recovery is different. I think so much depends on how healthy you are now and if you are how much of an independent person you are.

I had someone drive me home and help me to my sofa. I slept for two days because of my pain pills. After that I walked around the house and property a few times per day to help get rid of gas, so dog-walking would be fine (if it's not a dog who will pull you). Have all of your things ready and in place before you go to the hospital...scale, meds, measuring cups, Soups, whatever you will need for the first week. Have a comfortable spot on the first floor made up. For me it was my living room, sofa, end table, laptop, tv remote, and cel-phone charger.

It's really just the first week that is physically tough. After that it's 90% mental and 10% physical (for me anyway). And the first week toughness isn't anything you can't handle on your own.

[alwaysvegas 702]

I went post-op alone, although friends and family did call to check on me. The only real difficulty was getting up easily from bed or the recliner the 4th and 5th days after surgery (when I was at home), but it was actually easier than my ventral hernia repair last year.

Before surgery, I just made sure I was stocked up on all the necessary post-op supplies (Gas-X, Isopure, laxative, Protein powders, almond milk, popsicles, and so on so I wouldn't have to ask anyone to get me something from the store.

I was actually fine with driving (without pain meds) by the 5th day after surgery (my second day home).

[3in1wOL 17]

Surgery is at 730 Tuesday morning. Have to be at the hospital by 630. Had a good day--Mass, mani/pedi, then this evening I had a massage. Feeling good. Thank you for all your input on recovery at home alone. Will check in after I get home from the hospital.

[tnpeach 41]

I hope all is well. It will get better.

[MistyAnnMoon829 387]

I recently moved back in with my mom and all I had her do with my surgery was drive me home from the hospital, I did everything else by myself. Made my own shakes, if I wanted to drive anywhere I did it. I only needed 1 painkiller the entire time and that was the first day, after that I was fine. I may as well have been alone for as much help as I utilized. She even took the time off just in case, and it was unnecessary for sure.