Prior to surgery. Before the surgery, you need to prepare to be out of work for anywhere from 3 weeks to 6 months, (depending upon the level of physical exertion needed in your work and the type of surgery you are having).Your physician will discuss a realistic time frame with you.rior to surgery. Before the surgery, you need to prepare to be out of work for anywhere from 3 weeks to 6 months, (depending upon the level of physical exertion needed in your work and the type of surgery you are having).