I just had an unplanned appendectomy last Monday (2/28). Has anyone had such a surgery? Have any information on how long one should stay out of the water? Any tips on getting back in, things to avoid, strength exercises for the post-surgical abdomen, tips on what to expect physically?
Former Member
check with your doctor before getting back in the water. I'm a firm believer in being "water-tight" before returning to swimming (I'm a veteran of many surgeries). That means--no openings (even from the stitches) at all--completely healed (at least externally).
Not that it’s recommended for all swimmers, but you question reminded me of the story of Jeff Farrell, the world's premier freestyle sprinter at the time of the 1960 Rome Olympic Games. Farrell was considered a shoo-in for the Olympic team when he came down with acute appendicitis six days before the Olympic Trials at Detroit. The operation was a success, but Farrell, wrapped in yards of adhesive tape, was considered in no shape to swim. He refused a special dispensation and took his chances in the US Olympic trials. Farrell placed fourth in the 100, and qualified for the relays. By Rome, Farrell was fully recovered and anchored both men's relays to Olympic and world records for his two Olympic gold medals.
Six days may be a bit quick for most of us mortals, so follow your doctor’s advice.
Ironically, it was an appendectomy 5 years ago that made me decide to finally get serious about swimming and get off my tub o' lard butt. Only advice is talk to your doctor as that is what I did.
