Going back to work at 6 weeks...before the post-op checkup?

My short term disability company called today and said they approved me for 6 weeks. That would put me back at work the day of my 6-week post-op checkup. Should I call and try to reschedule the checkup for before my first day back (in case the doctor wants to extend it?) Or should I go to work that morning and take off the afternoon for the checkup?

I'm a computer programmer with a desk job, and my recovery is going swimmingly. At 2.5 weeks post-op (now) I get tired if I sit too long, but otherwise I feel fine. Would there be any reason she would extend my STD to 8 weeks, or is that just wishful thinking?

My dr scheduled the 6 wk postop appt for exactly 6 wks after the operation. I had put in my time off papers that I expected to be back to work 6/13/05. When I saw the 6 wk appt was set for my 3rd day back at work I tried to reschedule it for the week before the appt. The dr didnt budge - said had to be exactly 6 wks after. My job wouldnt allow me to come back without a doctors release, so I ended up returning to work 6/20/05.

Your doctor may reschedule for you, its worth a try. However, if you work for a large company, their policy will probably be you have to have the doctors release to return to work. Good luck!

Hi Kyrie;

I went for my post op yesterday with a return date scheduled for today. I was also worried that if something should go wrong I'd be in a bind.

I believe that you cannot return to work without a release from your doctor. My doctor released me but suggested I only work 4 hours per day for the first week but could do more should I feel up to it. It was my day back and with meetings and everyting I ended up being their a full day. I'm exhausted

Why don't you call the doctor and try to schedule the day before?

Hi,
It is totally wise to be, "released" to return to work. If you go back willingly and have a problem there can be difficulties with your employer, and your doctor. Do whatever it takes...stick to your guns if you had 6 weeks pre- approved take everyday and then get a release.

I did not pass my 6 week check up. My recovery was extended 2 1/2 more weeks because my vaginal cuff was not healed. I'm not employed, but if I would have had a physical job to return to, I'm sure I would not have gone back to work. It will be up to your health and your doctor. Don't let anyone push you back to work even one day too soon.

Best of luck...glad everything is going well for you now.
Maralyn

Most companies won't let you come back if you don't have a Dr's release. You might want to double check.
Kat