Upcoming hysterectomy 1/25: When did you go back to work after surgery (PT and FT)

I only have 1 week of PTO, then STD and LTD (but worried about my income not being enough). How long before you went back to work part time? How long before you went back to work full time? I work from home full time on a computer, so it is just sitting up in a chair and typing. Those of you who have had the procedure, were you mostly in bed for any length of time? Or can I hope I can be back typing within a few weeks at least if I break it up into 1-hour increments? Just trying to be prepared

Hello lovemypets1,

I am 6 weeks post op from a TAH/BSO. I too have a desk job, and was given the OK to return to work tomorrow. I guess it all depends on what type of procedure you have done. Mine was not done robotically due to the size of my ovarian cyst. Does your employer have paid short term disability leave? You should be able to take up to 12 weeks a year either paid/unpaid depending on the employer.

Good luck!

I had a total abdominal hysterectomy and I also work (full time) from home. As this was my first surgery ever and I did not know what to expect, I took off three weeks to just let my body heal and I returned to work that fourth week. My doctor approved it because I do work from home and my job does not require any lifting or pushing. I had absolutely no problems. However, your body will definitely let you know when you push yourself too much. Please make sure you check with your doctor to make sure you are cleared to return to work. Wishing you a speedy recovery!!

Hi lovemypets1 -

I had a TAH BSO. I went back to work to a moderate stress desk job after 3 weeks, but could only do part time work for another 4 weeks. After that, I went back full time but could not do any OT.

Working, even if it is just typing at a computer, takes more energy than you think. It also takes more concentration than you think, concentration that you might not have. You will also be very exhausted. Healing and recovery from this surgery takes time. Think in terms of weeks and not days.

I would take as much time as you can, and go back earlier if possible.

I took 9 weeks off, the maximum I was able to take, for disability payments. I also have a desk job, and it was a little bit uncomfortable, I had to stand up sometimes and move around a little, and needed to lie down for a bit when I got home from work. But since you'd be working from home, at least you could wear very comfy clothes. And breaking up the work into small increments should help.
You normally won't be bedridden during recovery at all, unless there are other issues, or if you push yourself too much, and bring it upon yourself. I was up, cooking, walking, etc., but took it very very easy.
I felt back to completely normal at about the 3 month mark, but continued to be careful.