Get Well Soon

Helping you make a speedy recovery after your laparoscopic nephrectomy

Returning to work

Fact: Work can be part of your recovery

Everyone needs time off to recover after an operation - but too much of it can stand in the way of you getting back to normal. In fact, by staying off for too long, people can become isolated and depressed. Getting back to your normal work routine sooner rather than later can actually help you to recover more quickly.

Getting back to work

How quickly you return to work depends on a number of things:

• How you heal
• How you respond to surgery
• The type of job you do

People whose work involves a lot of heavy lifting, or standing up or walking for long periods of time, will not be able to return to work as quickly as those who have office jobs which are less demanding physically.

How soon can I go back?

Every person recovers differently and has different needs. Some people find that they are well enough to return to work 2 weeks after surgery, though most people take 4 weeks to get back to work. However, if your job involves heavy lifting (more than 5kg at a time) or standing for prolonged periods of more than 20 minutes, then you will need between 4 and 6 weeks before you can return to normal work activities.

Your GP or surgeon will help you decide on the best time for you to return to work, based on your individual needs.

If your employer has an occupational health nurse or doctor they will advise you on this. Alternatively your GP can give you advice. Ultimately, it’s your decision when you want to go back, and there’s no insurance risk to your employer if you choose to do so.