In terms of my recovery, for the trial I think I had the leads in for a week or so, before they were taken out. I was encouraged to go back to work and carry out 'normal' activities (within reason) so as to get a realistic idea of how much difference the SCS would make to my daily life.
For the permanent implant, I think I had about 2 weeks off work, and then was back in work - I had an office based job at the time but had help with certain things e.g. lifting, picking things off the floor etc. The advice I was given at the time was no lifting, bending, twisting or arms above the head for about 8 weeks. I had help at home for the first couple of weeks but also had a 'litter picker' type thing to help get pick things up off the floor etc. when I was on my own.
My battery is in my abdomen, sort of in line with my bellybutton. I can feel it through my skin, and it is occasionally a little uncomfortable, but I have no issues with it getting in the way of clothing, sitting down etc. I have had it replaced once, and they used the same incision from when it was originally implanted to take the old one out and put the new one in, so no additional scars etc. to worry about there.
I am likely to need a revision to my leads as the area of coverage of my leg has shifted substantially - and they are not sure why. The consultant has mentioned they might replace the whole thing with a newer model whilst they are at it, one which is MRI friendly, but any revision surgery obviously comes with risks that they may not be able to get the same coverage again when they place new ones, so something I am not rushing into especially given I have a little one on the way.
I think you need to have a good chat with your employers about what is to come, what support you need now in terms of ensuring you aren't doing more than your hours and reasonable adjustments needed whilst you are working, so that you can start to reduce the meds.
Hope this helps and happy to answer anything else!