Can anyone give me an idea of recovery time for an LD flap recon - I’m going in Monday week (28th) - hooray and am trying to plan life so everyone’s stress is minimal - kids, husband, buisness partner etc.
I’m told by the PS that I’ll be in for 3-4 days, don’t drive for 2 weeks, booked off for 4 - 6 weeks, but what does that actually mean - I know the surgery is long, which will tkae some time to get over, but how long before I can work a few hours?
Hi Beloved
I have had two LD operations at different times. I was in hospital 4 nights both times. Would recommend a ‘V’ pillow for hospital I found it really helpd my back at night to sleep. For me the first 2 weeks were abit slow in the mornings, was ok getting kids (one 5yr old and one 7 yr old) dressed for school but had help with school run in mornings initially as I was bit stiff but did afternoon school run. Arm exercises really help too. I have driven 3rd week short distances. On both occasions I have had a seroma on my back with lots and lots of fluid so I have had to have drainage 2 times a week for 3/4 weeks. it goes eventually sometimes alittle uncomfortable. Lots of walking and fresh air and friends visiting and family is a help and comfort. Good luck with your operation. Let me know if you need to know anything else.
take care
Bakers x
Hi Beloved
I must be a bit of a wimp I think.
I was in hospital 7 nights. Didnt drive for 6 weeks (as told not to by surgeon). Went back to work this week after 12 weeks. See what I mean by wimp???
We are all very different and heal at different paces, age must be a factor and the nature of your work, anaesthetic affects everyone differently also. I can honestly say that after 12 weeks I am doing everything that I was before, including walking 2 lively dogs, looking after horses, including lifting sacks of feed and bales of hay. I believe that because I took it very easy to begin with I am now reaping the benefits. Like Bakers I found arm exercises helpful. Luckily my employer is providing physio-therapy which is very useful and my therapist has reccommended Pilates which I am looking into.
Good luck with your op next week.
Jackie.