I have had this surgery many times over the years back when the surgery was a real nightmare with open incisions 4 inches long so - relax! Now it is a day surgery and they will probably make 3 or 4 tiny incisions and do it laparascopically. My hubby had it a couple of years ago and after being on crutches for about two days per doctors instructions, he was able to bear weight and back to work with no problem in a week. For the first few days, they are going to want you to keep your leg elevated as much as possible to help with swelling and probably keep ice packs on it. They will give you some pain meds but my hubby did not take any after the first day. Only your doctor of course can rule on how soon you can sew and/or drive.