Need Some Time off Work for Cosmetic Surgery? Here Is How to Handle It

November 30, 2019

Letting your coworkers and boss know that you are getting a tummy tuck, breast augmentation or facelift can feel downright embarrassing. However, if you are planning on an elective cosmetic surgery, you will have to plan for some time away from work. Here is a primer on how to address these concerns at your workplace.

Know Your Company’s Policies

Take a glance through the human resources manual or the employee handbook. In general, your company is not allowed to ask you for details about your surgery. However, if your cosmetic surgery is for medical purposes, you may be able to score some short-term disability pay.

Let Your Boss Know without the Details

It is always best to be honest about having a surgery, especially if you are going to look significantly different when you get back to work. This does not mean that you have to tell your boss all of the details of your surgery if this makes you uncomfortable.

You May Need to Have Time Off Accrued

If you are choosing surgery for cosmetic reasons rather than medical needs, you will probably need to cover your time off with accrued sick time or vacation time. The benefit of using vacation time for your surgery is that you will not have to give your boss as many details.

Consider Working from Home

Ask your employer if you could work remotely as you recover. This could even open the door to more remote work after you have recovered. If you are unable to keep up on your work from the comfort of your couch, try to train coworkers to cover your job for you.

Remember that the amount of time you will need to take off work will depend on the cosmetic surgery you are choosing as well as on the job you have. If you work a desk job, you will probably need to take very little time away from work. However, if you work an active job, such as on a construction crew or as a personal trainer, you will need to take up to a month and a half to heal after some surgeries. Be sure to check with your cosmetic surgeon before asking for time off, and be as honest with your boss as possible as soon as you know the details.