3 months or 6 months off post op? Who decides?

I’m 2 weeks post op exactly! It was a bit touch and go for a few days but I am feeling better now.

Originally I was like, I’m going to go back to work in 2 weeks! Now I’m like, no way. I want at least 3 months. Maybe even 6. My work is labor and includes heavy lifting, bending and sitting in a very uncomfortable, non ergonomic chair for long hours.

I’m thinking about my whole future and I think I want to push for closer to 6 months off. Who decides that, myself or the doctor? Are there certain factors? Before the surgery my doc said that I have some degeneration and I might need a fusion in the future. If he’s already calling that then I really feel like I should push for 6.

Thanks for reading! ❤️