pina, i had a section with each - emergency first and elective the second. it's different depending on how you react, and at what stage you have the section. both of mine were quite prem (8 weeks and 6 weeks) so babies ahd to go to SCBU straight away - but if they are term or don't need special care I understand they are given straigh to mum, like a natural delivery.
with the elective i was in recovery for 5 hours or so, but only really because we were shipped down to epsom and it was really quiet. then up into a single room that we paid for (get a single room if you can it's so much nicer with a section!). I had the section at 730pm, and was up and moving around the next morning by about 9am. you will have a catheter in and a drip until they are happy that you are taking in fluids ok and processing them - unless there is a medical reason try and get them to take both out asap, they just restrict you!
take big knickers for other the scar, and beware you will probably almost faint the first time or 3 you stand up -don't worry it's normal, but you must keep trying to get up! just take your time and have some water. i made it to the bathroom (about 3 steps from my bed) and then had to sit on the loo for 15 minutes while i tried not to faint! take it really slowly but keep persevering - the best thing for healing is to get the muscles going.
o'h and start taking arnica a week or so before your section and then the day of the section and 2 days after take it every 30 mins. it really helps.
it is a big op but you will be surprised how much you heal very quickly. i felt dreadful the day after but by the next morning i was like a different person.
o'h and also take the drugs they offer for the first 36 hours! i had a shot of diamorphine just after i left recovery as i had co-codamol and paracetomol and they wore off pretty quick. ask what pain relief they can offer and then when you need it say to the midwife looking after you "i was told i can have this, can i have some now please?". i was also given some anti inflamatories with the painkillers which were wonderful
good luck - when is it planned for?