Hey 83,
Your question is something I wish I asked before I got the surgery done. To be honest, support and someone that is beside you is extremely important. You don't want to feel alone. Depending on your situation and how major the surgery is, you can decide on going back to work and driving. However, from experience and minor surgery I can assure you that even "I" needed assistance with cooking, driving, and getting ice. To sum it up it makes life a lot more wonderful with someone to "help" you. You want to know that you are supposed to "REST" "RECOVER" and this means DONT MOVE!!!!!!
This is how I would suggest you be ready.
1.) Get a friend, a pal, anyone who can stay with you for the first 3-4 days. (never forget to repay those that supported you)
2.) Before the surgery prepare your bed and many liquids to drink. You can even keep a bowl of fruits. WHY?!?!
Because once you come back from surgery you are to go STRAIGHT to bed, "drink some liquids and eat some fruits" and sleep for as LONG as you can.
3.) Do not get up unless it is going to the bathroom.
4.) On the second to third day begin eating in your regular manor, but eat eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese.. etc.
The rest can be different for everyone.
Hope this helps!