Working from home after lower body lift?

Question

Hi: I am planning on having a lower body lift (circumferential with abdominal tightening and liposuction). I am trying to get an idea of when I may be able to resume my sedentary remote job from home. I could even work on my computer from bed and the most exertion would be phone calls. Does anyone think it would be possible to return to this level of work after 7-10 days post op? Thanks

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding when you can return to working from home after a lower body lift. I recommend that you give yourself a full two weeks before returning to work from home. I recommend you wait 3 to 4 weeks to return to limited activity. Everyone responds differently to pain, so it’s hard to tell how you will be reacting (mentally and physically) to your lower body lift and liposuction. Recovery is exhausting and may fatigue you during your phone calls. Of course, everyone is different, but I do recommend that you give yourself a for two weeks. Good luck with your lower body lift and liposuction.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

Based on my own experience after my body lift and after thousands of patients i have performed on, I can tell you that you won’t be in the mood, and either the strength to be sitting working. 
During your second week post op (7th-14th day postop) After 1-1.5 hours sitting you will be extremely tired, you may be answering some emails but not for hours. Probably after the 14th day you might endure being couple of hours before you need a break and a nap. 4 hours working while sitting,  I would say after 3rd-4th week. 
Be encouraged. 
Dr. Cárdenas

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear guyferarri,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Whether you can work from home after a lower body lift surgery depends on several factors, including the nature of your job, the extent of the surgery, and your individual healing process. Here are some general considerations:1. Extent of Surgery: The recovery time and limitations can vary based on the specific procedures involved in your lower body lift. It typically involves a combination of procedures such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), thigh lift, buttock lift, and liposuction. Your plastic surgeon can provide specific guidance based on your surgery details.2. Healing Time: Recovery from a lower body lift surgery can take several weeks to months. Initially, you may experience discomfort, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility. It's essential to give your body adequate time to heal before attempting to resume work.3. Physical Requirements of Your Job: Consider the physical demands of your job. If your job involves sitting at a desk and minimal physical activity, you may be able to return to work sooner, possibly even from home, as long as you can maintain a comfortable and supportive posture. However, if your job involves heavy lifting, prolonged standing, or other physically demanding tasks, you may need to wait longer before returning to work, even if it's from home.4. Work Environment: Assess whether your home environment is conducive to a comfortable and productive work setup during your recovery. Ensure you have a comfortable chair, proper workstation ergonomics, and easy access to any necessary equipment or supplies.5. Pain Management: Effective pain management is crucial during the initial stages of recovery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication and may recommend other strategies to help manage discomfort, which can impact your ability to work effectively.6. Follow-Up Appointments: Keep in mind that you'll need to attend follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns. These appointments may temporarily interfere with your work schedule, whether you're working from home or in an office setting.Before attempting to work from home or return to your regular workplace, it's essential to consult with your plastic surgeon. They can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances and help you determine the safest and most appropriate timing for resuming work activities. Additionally, listen to your body and prioritize rest and recovery to support optimal healing outcomes.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Though recovery is unique to the individual, patients will typically take two to three weeks off work after a lower body lift.  As you work from home you may be able to go back a bit sooner.  If possible you may want to consider a revised schedule when you first return as you will wear out quicker than normal.

Ahmad H. Ahmadi, MD · Answer

Waiting ten days to go back to a desk job is OK as long as your surgeon clears you. But do listen to you body. If you get tired, do rest. Don’t expect to be at your desk for eight hours straight. Your body needs rest to heal.

Michael S. Wong, MD · Answer

Dear guyferarri,
Thank you for your question. It depends. If you are off all your pain medications that might affect your decision-making, then you could return to a sedentary job that requires no lifting. If you are still on such medications, then it is best to wait.
Please ask your plastic surgeon that you are having this procedure with. They may have other thoughts.
Best to you as you move forward.

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