Answer:
You know yourself better than anyone, but listen to your doctor and use common sense. My surgery was done on a Friday morning. I relaxed all weekend and went back to work (a desk job) on Monday. I was anxious to continue as normal a life as possible. A long-term painkiller was administered during surgery and although when it comes to pain, I usually "tough it out" rather than take any kind of drugs, so I was surprised to find I did need to take some of the vicodan that my surgeon prescribed -- at least for a day or two.
I think it is important to keep up your everyday routine as much as you can within the limits of your doctor's orders as well as using your own common sense. It is surgery and you don't want to open up the wound by doing something stupid. Building that rock wall or cleaning out the attic can wait a while! It will give you something to look forward to while you relax and recover!