How to tell work

Hi ladies! I’m beating myself up over how to tell work about my op, so I’m hoping I can get some advice on how to handle it ????. My surgery is in November & I’ve booked 2 weeks of annual leave so that’s not an issue, but I have a physical job so I need to be on restricted duties for the remaining 4 weeks of recovery.
The boss I wanted to tell is now off sick for a while so I now need to go to my ‘big’ boss & I’m petrified!! He’s the most traditional middle class person & I have no idea how to approach the subject with him. I want to be honest so they understand if I struggle after the 6 weeks, but at the same time I am so embarrassed to tell him so could happily keep it to myself.
Anyone with any tips I would appreciate it so much ❤

Xx

Hiya,
When I had some surgery following an abnormal smear and when I had my coil changed I just said I’d had surgery which meant I could possibly be restricted in the following days and no one questioned it except to ask if I was okay.
I know it’s completely different circumstances but maybe start off by just saying “surgery” then if he asks just say “it’s cosmetic” then if he pushes further maybe just tell him? There’s no shame in it.
Most bosses would respect your decision and want to help you work around it I think, but I totally understand why it’s awkward/difficult to discuss.
Best of luck 🙂

That’s a good idea, keep it vague & let them ask the questions. I want to tell work as soon as possible so they have time to plan around it or whatever needs to be done. I was meant to do it yesterday but kept putting it off. I’ll have to bite the bullet & do it today! I’m not as close to this boss as I am the others so it makes it harder! Thank you

Xx

Hi, I would suggest that you advise your boss that you are having elective, intrusive surgery, which is the reason behind your annual leave and that on your return, due to the nature of your surgery, you may need to alter your duties for a fixed period. I would suggest that you visit your GP before you return to work and request a sick note identifying that you are fit for work on amended duties. Your GP will do this without question and they will identify the length of time for your amended duties on your sick note. This is totally reasonable and your place of work should consider these suggestions. Your not obliged to tell your boss what surgery you had yet you have provided substantial considerations for your return to work. X

Thank you!! That sounds really good & just in time, I’m waiting for everything to die down & then I’ll tell him 🙂 I’m going with a private hospital so they’ve said they will provide the sick note for me so that’s all good!
I’m not going huge so no one should really pay much attention, especially as my work uniform covers my chest area!

Thank you ladies you’ve put my mind at ease xx

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