I had a lumpectomy more than three years ago. I was told I could resume normal activities in 2 days. However, I have chronic pain from another condition and I took a week at home. I did do gentle exercise and some walking every day. I stretched my left side a lot (the lumpectomy side). I still have some pain/stiffness in armpit from lymph removal, so I stretch to this day. Overall, I had very little pain--something like three days on the prescribed painkillers and then just my usual regime (which probably helped). I had a lot of bruising and redness on the left breast, but it was not infected or even very swollen--more like irritated skin. It cleared by itself. I can't remember shower restrictions--maybe a week? You can check in with the surgeon in you follow-up after the surgery. I did just wash my hair with a little bucket in the tub--which was cheering! Obviously everyone is different, but generally I'd suggest not pushing too hard and listening to your body's energy level. I hope it will be reassuring to hear that now I can barely remember the recovery--and it certainly wasn't bad. Do what you enjoy--whatever mix of quiet and sociability, rest and mild activity. Your strength should come back quickly. I wish you a simple surgery and good recovery.