how quick can i go back to work (construction worker)

[sandokan]

 Hello everyone, i'm having surgery done soon. Im a construction worker, so im in very good shape. Low bodyfat and i dont have alot of gland/tissue to take out, so im hoping my recovery will be quick.
 
It turns out i will only have 2 1/2 weeks (17 days to be exact) before i need to go back to work. I originally figured i would have more recovery time available.

 Is this sufficient time for recovery? my work involves manual labour and i can try my best not to over do it.

[Dr. Elliot Jacobs]

I generally request that my patients refrain from strenuous exercise or work for about four weeks -- others docs have slightly different regimens.  Certainly it is best to give your body the longest time possible to heal -- why rush back to a situation in which you could possibly jeopardize the results of the operation?

Best to discuss this with your own surgeon -- he knows what was done and might clear you -- or not.

Dr Jacobs

[Litlriki]

Depending on what sort of work you have to do, you may be fine with 2 1/2 weeks off before you go back to work, but if you have to do a lot with your arms over your head, or a lot of pushing and pulling that might impact your chest area, it may be difficult for you to tolerate the activity. Your body is a good guide as you recover and re-engage in certain activities, and the best thing to do is avoid maneuvers that are painful.

Rick Silverman

[sandokan]

Thanx for the advice. I will take an extra week off to be safe.