Breast augmentation and work. What are my options if I do not want to take off nor do I want to take 6 weeks of non-paid leave?

Question

I was hoping to have breast augmentation and did not want to take six weeks off from work (& I don't have 6wks of PTO). However, per manager I physically would not be able to perform my complete job description ( e.g. lifting patients ) thus would have to take those 6 weeks off. What are my options? Any laws that would permit me to be on "light duty" or something similar? I understand, FMLA/short-term disability does not cover cosmetic surgeries. Any suggestions are welcomed. Thank you.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Perhaps going to work on modified duties would be an option for you. Speak with your chosne surgeon. Regards,

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Many of my patients take two weeks off of work and then request a further 4 weeks of modified duty if their job is physically demanding. I provide a doctor's note stating that they require this time off due to medical procedure. That is the only information you need to provide.All the best

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It depends on the patient. Everyone recovers differently. Pain varies per person but  medication to control #discomfort is provided. Your healing will continue on for 2-3 months for the early period. This includes some swelling, bruising, malposition, color differences. Sensation may also be abnormal and scars will be evolve. As I tell my patients, you make take gentle walks within a few days following your #surgery. Light #activity may be started 7-10 days after surgery. If your work keeps you sedentary, you may return whenever you feel up to it. If your work is strenuous, wait until your work activity does not cause any superficial pain. Some employers will modify a person’s job duties so they can back sooner, but without physical, strenuous activity for a specified period of time. Do not begin light aerobic #exercise for 3 weeks and strenuous exercise for at least 6 weeks. Let your body tell you what it can tolerate. It is always recommended to call and see your surgeon to discuss your healing concerns.

Nana N. Mizuguchi, MD, FACS · Answer

I would try to work it out with your co-workers as far as lifting.  Most of my nurses and other hospital employee take just a few days off and go back to work.Best Wishes,Nana Mizuguchi, MD

Bryan Correa, MD · Answer

Depending upon the surgical technique chosen (e.g. under vs over the muscle) the return to full activities may be a little bit quicker. That being said, part of the reason there is a delay is due to bleeding risk which exists out to the 3-4 week mark, regardless of technique. I would discuss with your boss light duties - people have surgery all the time for all sorts of reasons and the truth is that it is none of his/her business if you're having breast surgery or big toe surgery (your privacy in this matter is protected, legally). I hope this is helpful. Good luck!

Theodore Nyame, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I would discuss the issue with your surgeon. If this issues is critical enough and you would be a candidate for a subglandular implant placement then use of your arms may not be as big an issue and you may be able to return to active duty faster. Best wishesTheodore T. Nyame MD

Roy A. Semlacher, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Each physician has his own protocol and preferences. Mine are as follows. If you have a desk job you can have surgery on a Friday and be back to work on the following Monday. We don't want you to do anything that increases your heart rate or blood pressure for 2 weeks after surgery. At 2 weeks you can start low impact aerobic, weights with your lower limbs and light weights with your upper. At 4 weeks you can start high impact aerobics. Always wear a very supportive sports bra when you do these activities. At 6 weeks you can do what you want. With  respect to sexual manipulation of your breasts don't do that for 3 weeks. You can have sex any time but no breast manipulation for 3 weeks.Of course this routine is modify to fit individual life styles but this is my basic routine.We do a fair number of nurses. Patient  lifting is usually accommodated by fellow works for the first couple of weeks. To my knowledge most co-workers are very helpful and understanding in these situations.

Daniel Krochmal, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you very much for your question.It's best to continue to discuss this with your boss, and see if there is some arrangement that can be made for lighter duty.  Best of luck!

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