FMLA for surgery

In April of this year, a tendon tore in my right hand and I ended up having surgery. I was out for a week and a half, had physical therapy for about 2 months, not to mention the post-op appointments with my hand surgeon. When I did go back to work, I was in a cast for 3 weeks, then I had brace that resembled a "Terminator arm" for the next month, month and a half. When I had the cast on, I was restricted to lifting no more than 1 lb. and I think no typing (it might have been "light typing," but I still couldn't type so it didn't matter.)

This December, I'm looking to have preventive surgery on my left hand and wrist to prevent any spontaneous tendon tears from occuring.

My question to you all is, should I take FMLA this time around for this surgery in Dec. I have about 150 of sick leave available and I think I could possibly use up my sick time if I opt to not take FMLA based on the time I was out for the surgery, as well as the follow up appointments and physical therapy that I will have to go to. If I should take FMLA, I was looking at taking 3-4 weeks of time away, simply because being in the cast for 3 weeks and trying to keep it elevated while at work gave me pain in my elbow and shoulder joints. Looking back, I probably should have stayed home where I could rest comfortably.

I'm really in a pickle because I feel like my supervisor is wondering "Well you didn't take FMLA before, why are you taking it this time around." I'm a good employee and I am always at work, but at the same token, I don't want to not take FMLA, use up all my sick time and worry about how I'm going to make it to Physical Therapy with limited sick time. If had taken FMLA to begin with, I would definitely have more sick time than I have, but you live and learn.

Any input is greatly appreciated!

Steph