Will just chime in to say that I had a subtotal hysterectomy for my 10-12cm fibroids three weeks ago and am luckily recovering really well.
The procedure went smoothly and I was out of bed in less than 24 hours. Only stayed in hospital 2 nights. Took it very easy the first few days but was soon able to do small things around the house (fold laundry, pack kids' lunch boxes, light cooking, etc). I try to get out for a walk every or two.
I had 2 c-sections and the surgeon was able to go through my existing scar. It's healing nicely but my tummy is still a bit swollen and tender. My main symptom from the fibroids was constant pressure on my bladder. It's a little hard to tell yet how much relief the surgery has provided bc of the swelling and internal healing, but I think there is definite improvement.
The hardest part was being unable to keep anything down while the GA wore off but by the morning after the op I was able to eat some cornflakes and then some rice for lunch. Was back to normal diet pretty quickly.
Having had the c-sections, I was very familiar with what I'd be experiencing (although I'd never been under GA before). I think that familiarity made the whole process easier. With my c-sections I lost a lot of blood (nearly 2L) and needed transfusions, plus had newborns needing me. This time around was much easier in comparison.
I'm very fortunate to have help with the school runs, and to be able to take it easy for the next few weeks.
Everyone has a different experience, of course, but I'm happy to report that mine has been really positive. Hope that helps and good luck.