Travel after Bypass - 3 weeks

Hello! I am having bypass on May 21 (gah! yay! happy happy!) and have a 4 day trip to San Antonio for son's basic training graduation on June 8. I know that this is a bit soon for a trip, but this is an important life milestone I'm not prepared to miss and I think with preparation, realistic expectations and lots of self-care, it's doable.

Besides carrying water & drinking it like it's my job - what is some other advice on travel 3 weeks out from surgery? Especially to a warmer climate than here (Colorado). I've heard of putting some electrolyte packs in my water for a little boost? We are staying at something called the River Walk which I hear is beautiful - and fun! - and I feel confident I'll be able to get lots of walking in. All advice appreciated!

Note: This is my 3rd revision. I know a little of what to expect from surgery - not everything - but i know I'm a diligent type and will make sure to take good care of myself. I want this trip to be about HIM and not about ME in the ER for dehydration :-)

Tips?

You might not have the energy to party all night, but I think you'll be fine for the ceremony. Dehydration is not an accident, it's caused by not doing what you're supposed to and you already know that.

Congrats to your son and good luck with your revision

Oh goodness! Party all night! LOL! I just want to be there for him during the day as much as they let us and get good sleeps in! I'm more of a "napper" than a "partier" :-) I'm all about doing what I'm supposed to - I'm ready. And thanks for the congrats! Two lap-bands later... so frustrating.

I traveled at 2 weeks, on the pureed only stage. Just be prepared with water, protein shakes, etc. You won't have as much energy as you think you should but as long as you stay hydrated, keep walking, you'll be good. If you're flying down, you'll want to walk as much as you can in the two weeks to ensure most if not all the surgery gas is out because that can be uncomfortable and my dr cleared me for the flights (phx to denver) but made me wear the compression socks and made me agree to get up and walk the plane even though it's only a little over an hour flight because of the higher risk of blood clots. I'd say the stop and walk applies even if you're driving from CO to SA.

GREAT advise :-) Honestly, after the 2 other surgeries, the thing I am dreading the most about this one is that frappin' GAS pain! Ha! We are flying - and the walking is a great idea. I will ask my doc about the compression socks - couldn't hurt and they are just DEAD sexy! :-) Thanks so much!

I found some very entertaining compression socks on amazon. If you have to rock the ugly, I go for the circus effect, lol

Have you asked your doctor? Particularly a flight that soon out?

I did not have the physical ability to travel at 3 weeks.

I did ask. He is cool with it although he may put me on blood thinners - but we'll talk about all that later. They want me to walk the aisle a couple times - which I see no problem with since I'll be drinking water like a crazy person I'm sure I'll have to pee.

I offered to move my surgery out - but he said it isn't necessary... i bounce back from surgery really well and I'm diligent at self-care, so I'm not really concerned. I just was looking for some tips from others that have done it :-)

Good news!!

A trip at three weeks post-op would not have gone well for me. Those first three-six months were met with strong physical/mental adjustments--especially unpredictable digestive issues. However, many have gone on trips early out and report all went well--wishing you the same.