How long did you take off work

LBG10

just wondering how much time off everyone took from their jobs?

I had a bilateral mastectomy with direct to implant reconstruction, I have compromised skin 3 wks post op, so my breasts are basically raw and very painful. My Range of motion is probably around 50% I would say!

I have a very active job that requires lifting daily, and moving overhead equipment daily!

Not to mention the emotional aspect of a breast cancer diagnosis and a not so pleasant recovery

I just can't imagine going back to work after the typical 6wk recovery time!

Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Peacetoallcuzweneedit

I went back after six weeks, but I could have taken longer...I just didn't ask for it...

Everyone is different and take the time to heal properly is my first advice....regardless of what that is IF you can afford it and disability kicks in - put yourself first and what you need during this time. It will make a difference in the long run...sending healing thoughts - Liz

edwards750

Everyone is truly different in body and DX and treatment plans or at least how you react to them.

Only you know when you are ready to go back. No timetable just how you feel. Since your job involves heavy lifting you definitely should take all the time you can and don’t overdo. Several ladies in my group at church overdid it and ended up with lymphodema. Brutal.

I alsoknow ladies who worked through the process but they didn’t have a choice. I did not. In fact after my radiation treatments I didn’t go back at all. Long story. Suffice to say DH and I calculated it was more financially worthwhile for me to take early retirement so I did.

Good luck whatever you decide.

Diane

Mucki1991

I agree with above if you can take extra time do. You need to be healed before you go back to a physically demanding job. You could cause serious damage so don't push it. You don;t have your DX or treatment listed but if you had lymph nodes removed lymphedema is a real possibility that can be aggravated but too much physical activity and you need to do everything you can to protect yourself from lymphedema. She's right it is brutal as I sit here with my very swollen hand and arm. If ever there is a time to put yourself first this is it.

Best Wishes for a speedy recovery.

beach2beach

LBG10,

You do what you need to do. Since your job is physically demanding, the risk of you hurting yourself while you are healing could set you back further than if you had stayed home until getting an all clear from Dr's. I would think your employment, knowing your situation would not want to you to undertake anything that you can't physically do yet. Any chance that if you do have to return to work sooner that you could be put on light duties?