Getting polyps removed is a common procedure that allows for the early detection and removal of abnormal tissue growths before they become cancerous. Many people who undergo polyp removal are able to return to work shortly afterwards. Here is some key information on what to expect and how long you need off work after polyp removal.
How long does recovery take after polyp removal?
Most people recover quickly from minimally invasive polyp removal and are able to go back to work within 1-2 days. With polyp removal surgery involving sedation or general anesthesia, you may need to take 3-7 days off work.
The recovery timeline varies based on:
- The size, location, and number of polyps removed
- The technique used – snare polypectomy vs surgery
- Whether you had any complications like bleeding or perforation
- The type of sedation or anesthesia used
Small polyps removed through a colonoscopy with minimal sedation allow for the fastest recovery. You should be able to return to work the next day after the procedure. Larger or more numerous polyps, or polyps removed through surgery, require additional recovery time.
How will I feel after polyp removal?
After polyp removal, you may experience:
- Mild abdominal pain or bloating
- Gas and loose stools
- Low-grade fever
- Mild rectal bleeding for up to 2 weeks
- Fatigue and weakness, especially after surgery
Your doctor will provide pain medication and recommendations on diet and activity to help manage any discomfort. Most side effects resolve within a few days but it may take 2-4 weeks to feel fully recovered from major surgery.
When can I return to work?
Here are general guidelines on returning to work after polyp removal:
| Procedure | Back to Work |
|---|---|
| Colonoscopy with 1-2 small polyp removal | 1-2 days |
| Colonoscopy with 3-10 small polyp removal | 2-5 days |
| Endoscopic mucosal resection | 1 week |
| Laparoscopic surgery | 2 weeks |
| Open abdominal surgery | 4 weeks |
The timing depends on factors like:
- Your role at work – whether you have an office job or strenuous physical labor
- Your recovery progress and any complications
- Your doctor’s recommendation
Discuss with your employer and doctor when you can reasonably return to work after polyp removal.
Returning to work after colonoscopy
You may be able to go back to work the day after a straightforward colonoscopy to remove one or two small polyps. Avoid heavy activity and allow your body to rest after the procedure. Drink plenty of fluids to help recovery.
If you had sedation, you will need someone to drive you home after the colonoscopy. You can resume normal activities once the sedative medication wears off, in about 24 hours. Reaction times and coordination may be impaired for the rest of the day after being sedated.
Returning to work after endoscopic mucosal resection
Endoscopic mucosal resection to remove larger polyps may require up to 1 week off work. You will be monitored for bleeding after the procedure and may have some abdominal discomfort. Start with light activity and advance gradually back to your normal routine.
Returning to work after polyp surgery
Surgery like a polypectomy or colectomy to remove multiple or large polyps requires additional recovery time of 2 to 4 weeks before returning to work. Recovery from major abdominal surgery includes:
- 1-3 days hospital stay
- Restrictions on lifting and strenuous activity for 2-4 weeks
- Gradually increasing mobility starting with short walks
- Taking 2-4 weeks off work duties
You will have follow-up visits to monitor recovery and check for any bleeding or other complications. Discuss with your surgeon when you can get back to work after surgery.
How to prepare for returning to work
To help ease the transition back to your job duties after polyp removal, consider taking these steps:
- Ask about job accommodations – Discuss with your employer modified or light duty options for a week after minor procedures or several weeks after major surgery.
- Limit work hours initially – Consider starting back at work part-time or for shorter days and slowly increase up to your normal schedule.
- Minimize heavy activity – Avoid strenuous physical exertion, heavy lifting, straining, or prolonged standing when first back at work after polyp removal.
- Take regular breaks – Short breaks to walk, rest, or do light stretches help recovery over the first few weeks back at work.
- Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol while recovering from polyp removal.
Listen to your body and take it easy as you return to work after polyp removal. Let your doctor know if you have complications or slower than expected recovery. They can provide work notes and guidance on any job restrictions needed.
Recovery and follow-up care
Diet and bowel rest
After polyp removal, especially large or numerous polyps, your doctor may recommend:
- A liquid diet for 1-2 days
- Gradually advancing to bland, low-fiber foods
- Avoiding spicy, greasy, or gas-producing foods temporarily
- Drinking plenty of fluids
This bowel rest helps healing and prevents straining with bowel movements. Your doctor will guide you on slowly returning to a normal diet over a few days.
Medications
Your doctor may prescribe:
- Pain medication – Over-the-counter or prescription medication to manage abdominal discomfort
- Stool softeners – To prevent constipation and straining with bowel movements
- Iron supplements – If you had significant bleeding during polyp removal
- Antibiotics – In some cases to prevent infection after surgery
Be sure to take any prescribed medications as directed to help healing and recovery.
Follow-up exams
You will need follow-up visits with your doctor to:
- Check for any bleeding or other complications
- Discuss the detailed pathology results from the polyp biopsy
- Decide on a surveillance schedule for repeat colonoscopies to monitor for recurrence
- Get clearance to return to normal work duties
Regular surveillance is important after polyp removal since you may be at higher risk for developing new polyps.
Call your doctor if you have:
Contact your doctor if you experience:
- Fever over 101 F
- Severe pain not relieved by medication
- Heavy rectal bleeding
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Nausea and vomiting
- Inability to pass stool or gas
These can indicate potential complications like infection, perforation, or bowel obstruction after polyp removal.
Conclusion
Most minor polyp removal procedures allow returning to work within 1-2 days while more involved surgery may require up to 4 weeks off work for recovery. Preparing your employer for time off and having job accommodations after returning can ease the transition.
Listen to your body, take it easy, and allow sufficient rest and recovery time before resuming your full work duties after polyp removal. Let your doctor know if you have any severe symptoms or slower than expected recovery. With your doctor’s guidance on aftercare and appropriate work restrictions, most people can get back to work safely within a few days to weeks after polyp removal.