Will I be able to continue my online classes after a tummy tuck and arm lift?

Hi Kattorr,
Thank you for question regarding whether you were able to continue your online classes during your first week after a tummy tuck and arm lift. A tummy tuck takes approximately three hours to complete. An arm lift or brachioplasty takes approximately three hours to complete. Therefore, this is six hours under general anesthesia. I would definitely give yourself a two week recovery before doing any online courses. You will also need your arms to take notes, data entry, and keyboard etc. You also may be a little bit dazed and confused from the pain medication. You will also be tired from the general anesthesia, surgery itself, healing process, and a slight drop in hemoglobin. Personally, I think you’re taking on too much. Therefore, I would strongly suggest you takeoff at least two weeks after your tummy tuck and combined arm lift. Good luck. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and ​member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

You will be taking some pain medication during the first week, so you may need to review your classes.

While it's possible to manage both surgery and online college courses, there are several factors to consider that will impact your recovery and ability to focus on your studies:

1. Recovery from Surgery:
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): This is a major surgery with a recovery period that can last several weeks. You'll likely experience some discomfort, swelling, and limited mobility in the first few weeks post-op, which can make sitting for long periods uncomfortable.
Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): Recovery from an arm lift can also affect your range of motion, especially when typing or using a computer. You may need help with basic tasks, as lifting your arms can be restricted.
Energy Levels: General anesthesia, pain medication, and the healing process itself can leave you feeling tired and less focused, especially in the first couple of weeks. Concentrating on coursework while in recovery could be challenging.
2. Managing Both Recovery and Coursework:
Consider Your Course Load: If your courses are flexible and don’t require synchronous participation, you might be able to manage studying during recovery. However, if the coursework is demanding or requires a lot of reading, writing, or active participation, it might be harder to stay on top of assignments while recovering.
Create a Support System: Having someone available to help with daily tasks, meals, and even setting up your workspace can make a big difference in how well you recover and manage your studies. This support will allow you to focus on healing while maintaining minimal participation in your courses.
Adjust Expectations: Be prepared to give yourself grace and manage your workload realistically. Talk to your professors ahead of time to explain your situation. They may offer flexibility with deadlines if necessary.
3. Timing and Communication:
Postpone If Necessary: If possible, you might want to consider delaying one of these events (either surgery or the start of school) to ensure you can dedicate enough attention to both.
Communicate Early: Let your instructors know ahead of time about your surgery. Many online programs are flexible and may accommodate you by offering extra time or alternate ways to complete assignments.
Conclusion:
It’s possible to balance surgery recovery and online courses, but it depends on your personal recovery experience and the demands of your coursework. Preparing for some downtime, planning ahead, and communicating with your professors can help set you up for success. If your courses require extensive focus and participation, consider whether delaying either the surgery or your start date might be the best option for your overall well-being.