Recovery time from open surgery.

The general rule of thumb with abdominal surgery is a wait of 6 to 8 weeks before lifting more than 10 lbs. The surgery requires an incision thru skin, fat, muscle layers and peritoneum.

Recovery is usually rapid--the peritoneum, skin and fatty layer heal within days. Muscle takes the strain of intra-abdominal pressure and requires healing in two stages: (1) A thickened inflexible scar forms with nerve endings (2) Scar tissue becomes flexible and adapts to movement.

Healing must be allowed to occur to prevent weakness in the scar line and potential for rupture or herniation of the abdomen thru the weakened muscles. Exercise can begin at about 6 weeks and gradually build up to full use of the muscles.

Each person heals differently, so remember that as you get answers here. 

I had open Sept. 24th.  At the 3 month mark in Dec., I felt and acted as if I were fully recovered.  Lifting and such was no problem.  I was in fairly good physical condition before and after surgery, but nothing requiring the heavy work you are asking about.  3 months for me was totally healed, in my opinion, for me.

Surgery last of Feb, 3 months is last of May.  If you start work a couple weeks after that, then I think you have gone beyond the longest period of time to restrict your activity as anyone has mentioned here.  It's your decision, make it in cooperation with your doctors and how you feel.  It's a hard call to make, but you should have a feel for how your body is healing by the 2 month mark.  Depending on your level of continence regained by that point, you may have to pack in a big supply of pads, or just go 'commando' and let it run down your leg during the day. If you are working alone, then you can probably get by with that....lol Seriously, it's another thing to consider if you are gonna be isolated for weeks at a time, planning for what you may need.  Hopefully, you will heal and seal right up, and not have the dripping problem.