Back to work

Hi, after my lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy, I was initially only going to have 2 weeks off of work but ended up taking 7 weeks off. My body was not healed after 2 surgeries and seroma drainage, and my mind was not mentally there to return to work after the process. 

See how your body feels and how you also feel mentally about returning to work. You are the best person to judge this one 😊

I had a mastectomy - my surgeon recommended two weeks off.  But I went back after one week. Bit bored and had cleaned out the kitchen cupboards! But this really depends on two things  - how quickly you heal and your emotional/mental response to the whole thing. I knew from a Caesarian section that I healed quickly and well. I was pretty sure that my relief in the first part being over was probably greater than my overall fear of cancer. Lots of fit and healthy people take time to heal. Lots of stable competent people get temporarily knocked off their feet by a cancer diagnosis. All the heavy lifting I had to do at work was mental. Do whatever feels right for you. If other treatment is likely, you may want to factor in some time off for that too. Best wishes. 

Hi Suzywong​ 

I originally was only going to take one week off.  My surgeon convinced me, if I had the leave, to take two weeks.  I'm glad I did.  I have a desk job and able to work from home. I had to abruptly cease HRT when I was diagnosed and have since been suffering with extreme fatigue so that extra week was really needed.  Have been back at work for two weeks now and find by 3pm I'm ready to just crash. 

Moomincorn​ thanks i realise i will need time off when the radiation starts i will have great support at work im a tuesday list too will listen to my surgeon obviously but need to take control of my life as well 

💕

i am a supermarket manager no heavy lifting to be done and will have amazing support 

Suzywong​ What type of work do you do?  Do you feel you will be supported on your return? 

When I had lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy last year as day surgery on a Tuesday I went back to work the following week Wednesday for one day, had two rostered days off, then worked Saturday-Monday. I work a peculiar part-time schedule of two or three days on, then two or three days off. I was glad to be able to dip my toe in for one day to see how I went before a bit of rest and doing a busy three day stretch. 

I drive to work, spend much of the day outdoors, talking to customers, lifting and moving objects. My bosses were very understanding that I needed a bit more time in the office and I wasn't to do any heavy lifting, pushing or pulling things. I did have to learn to do a lot of things left handed (even using a stapler!) because my surgery was on my right side which is my dominant side. 

If my work hadn't been so flexible and supportive I would have needed to take more time off to be fit enough for the job.

All the best with your surgery. Your body will give you useful feedback during recovery and it's important to listen to it and not push it too quick.