questions about recovery time with kids

Hi All,

My husband and I both want to be sleeved next year.  We are trying to decided how far apart to have our surgeries. I would like to be done the same day if possible because I think we will be much more successful if we are going through all the stages together.  But, we have two small kids.   By the time we have the surgery they would be 4 and almost 2.  Obviously the two year old will need to be picked up several times a day (for nap times, into the car, into the highchair, etc).  So, I'm wondering if we do it together how long would we need someone to stay with us to take care of the children.  Or, should we space the surgeries out a couple months?  The downside to that is then my husband would have to take time off twice during the year...once to help me and once for his own surgery.  

Any input you can give would be greatly appreciated! 

Of course your doctor can best answer your questions but 6 weeks is the standard time frame for no heavy lifting. You will be very weak for a few weeks as well. If you both plan on doing it together I would have someone handy for at least the first 4 weeks. You don't want to cause any complications by over doing it therefor taking even longer to heal.

Good luck on your journey!!

 

My restriction was four weeks, but my daughter was only one and I last 2 weeks before I couldn't help myself from picking her up.  She's a skinny thing, though, and I think she was only 18 pounds at that age. 

Does your husband need to take time off to help you because you're a stay at home mom?  So he needs to help you with the kids?  I'm asking because if your kids are in daycare or pre-school, then you'll be fine.  I didn't need any help.  I was up grocery shopping my second day back at home, then cooking freezer meals for my hubs and daughter because I was so bored.  My daughter was at an in home daycare provider at that time, so my hubs just took her and picked her up each day. 

If you and your husband have the surgery at the same time, you should have someone to help out for at least four-six weeks because of the lifting of a two year old (check with your doctor on his/her lifting restrictions).  If it was me, I'd space the two out so one of you can take care of the kids.

Yes, I am a stay at home mom. My sister lives with us but goes to school in in the evenings and works 3 days a week. So we would probably need help those 3 days. In the evenings her daughter could lift him for us. Thanks for your responses. It's hard for me to wrap my head around recovery with two little ones in the house but I'm tired of waiting. I want this over with.

It really varies from person to person as to how long recovery would be. I agree that I think it would be easier for you both to get it done at the same time.  You'd both be on the same page, and same plan.  

I have had a pretty easy recovery, and have been doing most things minus heavy lifting without an issue.  Having your sister and her daughter is great.  I'd definitely arrange it so they will be there to help. Especially the first 2-4 weeks.

Good luck!